W5- 


THE     COUNTESS     COSEL 


POT? .  OF  CALIF.  LIBRARY.  LOS  ANGELES 


Memoirs 


The    Countess    Cosel 


NK\V    YORK 
HRi 
DOWN] 

The  Countess  Conel 


Memoirs 


OK 


The    Countess    Cosel 


By 
Joseph  J.  Kraszewski 

Translated  and  Edited  by 

S.    C.    de    Soissons 


WITH  FIVE   PHOTOGRAVURE  PORTRAITS 


NEW    YORK 

BRENTANO'S 

LONDON:    DOWNEY  &   CO.    LIMITED 
1902 


LIST  OF  ILLUSTRATIONS 

The  Countess  Cosel       ......          Frontispiece 

Augustus  IT.  of  Saxony  (the  Strong)     .         .        To  face  page         i 
The  Princess  Teschen  .....  „  48 

The  Countess  Denhoff .         ....  ,,  194 

The  Countess  Orzelska          ....  „  320 


21 30807 


INTRODUCTION 

JOSEPH  J.  KRASZEWSKI  was  born  in  Russian  Poland 
in  1812.  He  came  of  a  noble  and  once  wealthy 
family.  His  parents  quitting  their  estates  during 
the  war  between  France  and  Russia,  the  boy  was 
left  in  the  care  of  his  grandparents  on  his  mother's 
side.  From  these  he  first  acquired  a  taste  for 
literature  and  art.  In  his  eleventh  year,  Kraszewski 
was  sent  to  the  College  at  Biala,  where  he  remained 
until  1826.  He  then  entered  the  College  at  Lublin, 
and  in  1829  he  proceeded  to  the  University  of  Wilno, 
where  he  gave  his  attention  principally  to  the  study 
of  languages,  especially  of  Old  Slavonic,  Russian, 
Latin,  Greek,  Hebrew,  and  Arabic.  He  spent  much 
of  his  time  in  reading  old  documents  and  manuscripts, 
and  the  materials  thus  gathered  he  subsequently 
utilized  in  his  historical  romances  and  monographs. 

The  novel  had  at  this  period  begun  to  be  the  most 
popular  form  of  literary  expression  in  Western  Europe. 
Kraszewski  read  and  admired  the  works  of  Le 
Sage,  Voltaire,  Jean  Paul,  Hoffmann,  and  even 
Washington  Irving.  His  first  literary  efforts  were  in 


viii  Introduction 

close  imitation  of  his  own  countryman,  Count  Skarbek, 
and  of  Laurence  Sterne.  He  began  to  write  in  1829, 
and  at  this  early  period  of  his  life  he  produced  several 
noteworthy  .novels. 

In  1831  he  was  arrested  by  the  Russian  Government 
for  his  connection  with  the  revolutionary  movement; 
but  through  the  influence  of  his  aunt — an  intimate 

o 

friend  of  Prince  Dologoruky,  the  Governor-General 
of  Wilno — he  was  subjected  only  to  arrest  at  home, 
instead  of  being  deported  to  Siberia.  Complete 
freedom  of  movement  was  not  restored  to  him  until 
1833.  In  this  year  he  became  the  leader  of  a  con- 
siderable literary  movement  in  Wilno.  He  edited 
there  a  weekly  newspaper,  and  from  his  pen  flowed 
poetry,  dramas,  novels,  and  historical  studies.  His 
literary  activity  was  indeed  amazing. 

In  1836  Kraszewski  left  Wilno,  and  took  unto 
himself  a  wife.  He  retired  to  his  estates  in  the 
country,  where  he  endeavoured  to  reconcile  the  life 
of  a  country  gentleman  with  that  of  a  litterateur* 
In  1855  he  came  to  Warsaw,  and  established  in  the 
Polish  capital  two  periodicals,  a  monthly  and  a  daily. 
At  this  time  the  Marquis  Wielopski  was,  on  the  Czar's 
instructions,  endeavouring  to  find  a  modus  vivendi 
between  Russia  and  Poland,  but  his  policy  was  fiercely 
attacked  by  Kraszewski  in  his  daily  newspaper ;  and 
when  the  insurrection  against  Russian  rule  broke  out 
in  1 86 1,  he  was  obliged  to  fly  from  Poland,  He 


Introduction  ix 

settled  in  Dresden,  where  he  passed  the  remainder  of 
his  life  in  continuous  literary  effort,  enriching  Polish 
literature  with  an  astonishing  number  of  works  in  all 
branches  of  belles-lettres.  In  1879  the  Polish  nation 
celebrated  at  Cracow,  in  a  solemn  and  imposing 
fashion,  the  fiftieth  anniversary  of  Joseph  Kras- 
zewski's  literary  dtbut.  After  his  death  he  was  laid 
to  rest  in  the  Pantheon  set  aside  by  the  Poles  for 
the  sepulture  of  their  literary  celebrities.  As  an  in- 
stance of  the  importance  of  Kraszewski's  personality, 
it  is  related  that  Bismarck  signalled  him  out  as  the 
man  through  whom  he  might  best  strike  a  blow  at 
the  Polish  members  of  the  German  Reichstag.  He 
was  tried  for  "  Attempted  Treason,"  and,  on  the  very 
slightest  evidence,  was  sentenced  to  four  and  a  half 
years'  imprisonment  in  the  fortress  of  Magdebourg. 

As  a  mighty  reformer  of  Polish  literature,  Kras- 
zewski  deserves  the  highest  esteem  of  his  countrymen  : 
as  a  diligent  worker  and  social  reformer  he  stands  an 
example  for  any  nation.  He  has  left  us  a  gallery 
of  pictures,  of  historical  episodes,  and  characteristic 
studies  of  interesting  historical  personages.  During 
his  long  residence  in  Dresden,  he  devoted  himself 
specially  to  a  study  of  men  and  manners  at  the 
Courts  of  Augustus  the  Second  (•'  the  Strong  ")  and 
Augustus  the  Third.  In  "The  Countess  Cose!"  he 
gives  us  views  of  Augustus  the  Second  and  his  courtiers 
which  are  almost  unique  as  pictures  of  Court  life. 


x  Introduction 

The  story  of  the  Countess  has  all  the  air  of  a  dramatic 
romance  carefully  planned  by  an  ingenious  novelist  ; 
yet  it  is  a  faithful  narrative  of  events,  illumined  by  the 
light  of  Kraszewski's  genius. 

S.  C.  DE  SOISSONS. 


THE     COUNTESS     COSEE 


CHAPTER  I. 

ALL  wls  silent,  dark,  and  sad  in  the   King's  castle,  in 
capital  of   Saxon  \  .      It  v  lutumn  night,  but 

at  the  end  of  'nly  begin- 

ning to  turn   \  '    windb 

and  the  ni,  rm. 

on  thi^  Torn  the 

ich  other  in  quick 

suc<  <  for  a 

moment     in     the     li-ad-oo  is    quickly 

COY  the 

>acing  to  and  fro.     Tiv  .  >f  the 

Kit  ,  usually  so  brilliantly  I,  were 

dark.     Thi  i   most    unusual    event  during    the 

reign  of  A  ,  surnamed  the  Strong,  because  he 

k  horse-shoes,  men,  sa  aid  ill- 

fortune  —  but  nothing  could  break  him.  Throughout 
the.  whole  of  Germany,  indeed,  throughout  the  whole 
nt  Europe,  he  was  famed  for  the  brilliancy  of  his  court. 
Th<  none  who  could  surpass  him  in  magnifi- 

•'.d  lordly  prodigality. 
. 


s   II.   <>f  >axi»n\     the  Strong 


to  .11 


THE     COUNTESS     COSEL 


CHAPTER  I. 

ALL  was  silent,  dark,  and  sad  in  the  King's  castle,  in 
the  capital  of  Saxony.  It  was  an  autumn  night,  but 
at  the  end  of  September,  the  leaves  are  only  begin- 
ning to  turn  yellow,  cold  winds  are  very  rarely  felt, 
the  days  are  usually  bright,  and  the  nights  warm. 

But  on  this  evening  the  wind  was  blowing  from  the 
north  ;  long  black  clouds  followed  each  other  in  quick 
succession,  and  if  a  star  made  its  appearance  for  a 
moment  in  the  lead-coloured  sky,  it  was  quickly 
covered  by  the  thick  clouds.  Before  the  gates  of  the 
castle  of  Georgenthor,  and  in  the  court-yards,  silent 
sentries  were  pacing  to  and  fro.  The  windows  of  the 
King's  apartments,  usually  so  brilliantly  lighted,  were 
dark.  This  was  a  most  unusual  event  during  the 
reign  of  Augustus,  surnamed  the  Strong,  because  he 
was  wont  to  break  horse-shoes,  men,  sadness,  and  ill- 
fortune — but  nothing  could  break  him.  Throughout 
the  whole  of  Germany,  indeed,  throughout  the  whole 
of  Europe,  he  was  famed  for  the  brilliancy  of  his  court. 
There  were  none  who  could  surpass  him  in  magnifi- 
cence, refinement  of  taste,  and  lordly  prodigality. 

B 


2  The  Countess  Cosel 

This  year,  however,  Augustus  had  been  defeated. 
The  Swedes  had  taken  from  him  the  electoral  crown 
of  Poland,  and  the  almost  dethroned  King,  chased  from 
the  kingdom,  had  returned  to  the  Kurfiirsten-neste,  to 
weep  over  the  millions  he  had  spent  in  vain,  and  the 
fearful  ingratitude  of  the  Poles.  The  Saxons  could 
not  understand  how  anyone  could  fail  to  admire  such 
a  good  and  noble  lord,  or  how  anyone  could  be  un- 
willing to  die  for  his  sake. 

Augustus  understood  this  still  less  than  they  did. 
The  word  "ingratitude"  now  accompanied  every 
mention  he  made  of  Poland,  and  at  length  his  courtiers 
avoided  talking  about  it,  about  the  King  of  Sweden, 
and  about  those  things  that  Augustus  the  Strong  had 
promised  himself  to  set  right. 

When  Augustus  returned  to  Dresden,  that  city 
made  every  possible  effort  to  distract  its  lord,  and  it 
was  only  on  this  evening  that  everything  was  quiet 
within  the  castle.  But  why  ?  The  King  had  not 
gone  to  any  of  his  other  castles  ;  the  Leipsic  fair  had 
not  yet  begun ;  and  besides,  it  had  even  been 
rumoured  in  the  court,  and  throughout  the  city,  that 
Augustus  intended  to  order  a  series  of  balls,  and 
carousals,  to  spite  the  Swedish  monarch,  and  to  prove 
to  that  august  personage  that  he  cared  nothing  for  the 
temporary  defeat  he  had  sustained. 

The  few  passers-by  who  wended  their  way  along 
the  streets  surrounding  the  castle,  gazed  at  the 
windows  in  astonishment,  wondering  why,  at  this 
early  hour,  everything  should  be  so  quiet  in  the 
King's  apartments.  But  anyone  who  penetrated 
further,  and  passing  through  the  first  large  gate, 


The  Countess  Cosel  3 

crossed  the  courtyard,  would  have  discovered  that  it 
was  only  on  one  side  of  the  castle  that  silence  reigned 
supreme,  and  that  the  interior  of  the  building  was 
seething  with  life  and  animation. 

Despite  the  keen  north  wind  that  was  blowing,  the 
windows  on  the  first  floor  were  wide  open,  and 
through  the  curtains  poured  forth  streams  of  light, 
reflected  from  many  mirrors  ;  whilst  from  time  to 
time  there  issued  from  the  depths  of  the  hall,  peals  of 
boisterous  laughter,  which,  ringing  through  the 
spacious  courtyard,  startled  the  watchful  sentries,  and 
echoing  against  the  grey  walls,  gradually  died  away 
in  the  distance. 

This  laughter  was  accompanied  by  more  or  less 
noise,  which  alternately  increased,  subsided  into 
murmurs,  or  died  away  into  silence.  At  times  there 
was  loud  clapping  of  hands  as  though  after  a  speech, 
and  then  again  was  heard  deep,  sonorous,  full-toned, 
king-like  laughter,  the  laughter  of  a  person  not  afraid 
of  being  heard,  or  of  being  answered  in  shouts 
of  derision.  At  each  fresh  outburst  of  merriment, 
the  guard  pacing,  halberd  in  hand,  beneath  the 
castle  windows,  paused  in  his  walk,  raised  his  eyes, 
and  then  with  a  deep  sigh  looked  down  on  the 
ground. 

There  was  something  awful  in  this  midnight  feast, 
held  while  the  wind  was  blowing  fiercely,  and  the 
capital  lay  wrapt  in  sleep. 

Here  the  King  was  making  merry. 

Since  his  return  from  Poland,  such  evening  de- 
bauches, with  a  few  intimate  courtiers,  had  been  more 
frequent.  Augustus  the  Strong,  defeated  by  Charles 


4  The  Countess  Cosel 

XII.,  was  ashamed  to  appear  at  great  feasts  ;  but  as 
he  needed  some  distraction  from  the  sad  thoughts  that 
oppressed  him,  he  gathered  round  him  a  few  courtiers 
to  whom  he  was  attached.  For  these  he  ordered  his 
servants  to  bring  out  the  golden  wine  that  was  yearly 
imported  from  Hungary  for  the  King's  private  use, 
and  of  this  they  drank  until  daybreak,  by  which  time 
every  one  had  fallen  from  their  seats.  Then  Hoffman 
came,  and  conducted  the  King,  still  laughing  heartily, 
to  bed. 

To  these  select  assemblies  of  the  priests  of  Bacchus 
only  a  few  persons  were  admitted,  only  those,  in  fact, 
in  whom  Augustus  had  entire  confidence ;  for  it  was 
said  that  after  drinking  a  few  bumpers  the  King  was 
dangerous.  His  strength  was  the  strength  of 
Hercules,  and  his  anger  the  anger  of  Jove.  If  he 
were  made  angry  in  the  morning,  he  said  nothing,  but 
his  face  grew  crimson,  his  eyes  glittered,  and  his  lips 
trembled.  He  would  turn  away,  and  would  not  look 
at  the  person  who  had  offended  him.  But  after  a 
few  draughts  of  wine  it  was  a  different  matter;  at 
such  times  he  had  thrown  many  a  one  through  the 
window,  who  had  fallen  on  the  pavement  to  rise  no 
more. 

His  anger  was  rare,  but  it  was  terrible  as  a  thunder- 
bolt. In  ordinary  life  there  could  not  be  found  a 
more  affable  or  benevolent  lord.  It  has  even  been 
remarked  that  the  more  he  disliked  a  man,  the  more 
sweetly  he  smiled  on  him  ;  and  the  day  before  they 
were  imprisoned  in  Konigstein,  where  his  favourites 
had  sometimes  had  to  remain  for  several  years, 
Augustus  would  embrace  them  as  though  they  were 


The  Countess  Cosel  5 

his  dearest  friends ;  so  noble  was  his  nature,  so  wishful 
was  he  to  soften  the  hard  lot  of  his  people. 

As  it  was  necessary  for  the  lord  to  have  some 
amusement,  it  was  nothing  remarkable  that  two  bears 
should  sometimes  be  brought  to  the  castle,  or  two 
enemies  made  drunk,  and  then  induced  to  fight.  This 
was  a  sport  in  which  the  King  especially  delighted, 
and  when  two  drunken  Vitzthums,  Friesens  or  Hoyms, 
began  to  quarrel,  he  used  to  split  his  sides  with  laugh- 
ing. This  was  such  an  innocent  recreation. 

The  King  could  make  them  quarrel  very  easily,  for 
he  knew  everything — he  knew  who  was  in  love,  and 
with  whom ;  which  man  hated  the  other ;  how  much 
money  they  had  taken  from  his  treasury  without  his 
permission  ;  he  even  knew  what  each  of  his  courtiers 
was  thinking,  and  it  he  did  not  know,  he  guessed. 
Who  the  spies  were  who  betrayed  them,  the  courtiers 
could  by  no  means  discover  ;  and  the  result  of  this 
was  that  each  one  suspected  his  neighbour  ;  brother 
was  afraid  of  brother;  the  husband  distrusted  the 
wife ;  the  father  had  no  confidence  in  his  son  ;  and 
King  Augustus  the  Strong  looked  on,  and  laughed  at 
the  mob ! 

Yes,  from  his  exalted  position  he  looked  down  on 
the  comedy  of  life,  not  disdaining  to  play  in  it  the 
role  of  Jove,  Hercules,  and  Apollo — and  in  the 
evening  the  role  of  Bacchus. 

On  the  evening  in  question,  being  very  sad  and 
weary,  the  King  determined  to  make  all  his  ministers 
and  favourites  drunk,  and  then  make  them  confess  for 
his  amusement. 

The   select  companions  of  the    King's   feast    were 


6  The  Countess  Cosel 

seated  in  a  brilliantly  lighted  room,  one  side  ot  which 
was  occupied  by  an  enormous  sideboard,  bright  with 
silver  and  cut  glass.  Amongst  those  present  were  : 
Count  Taparel  Lagnasco,  who  had  just  arrived  from 
Rome;  Count  Wackerbarth,  from  Vienna,  Watzdorf, 
called  the  peasant  of  Mansfeld  ;  Fiirstenberg,  Imhoff, 
Friesen,  Vitzthum,  and  Hoym  ;  and  last,  but  not 
least,  Friedrich  Wilhelm,  Baron  Kyan,  famous  for  his 
wit,  who  made  every  one  else  laugh,  whilst  he  remained 
perfectly  serious. 

The  King,  with  dress  and  vest  unfastened,  sat  lean- 
ing on  one  elbow — he  was  very  sad.  His  handsome 
face,  usually  so  bright,  was  veiled  in  a  mist  of  sorrow. 
Several  empty  bottles  bore  witness  to  the  fact  that 
drinking  had  already  continued  for  some  time,  yet  on 
the  King's  face  no  results  ot  the  goodly  wine  were 
visible.  The  golden  liquid  had  not  been  able  to  make 
his  gloomy  thoughts  more  bright. 

The  courtiers  jested  with  each  other,  endeavouring 
to  make  their  lord  laugh,  but  without  avail.  Augustus 
sat  silent  and  thoughtful,  as  though  he  heard  not  a 
word  that  was  spoken.  This  was  most  unusual  ;  the 
King  was  so  seldom  sad,  indeed  he  was  ever  eager  for 
mirth  and  distraction.  His  companions  grew  uneasy 
and  looked  at  him  askance. 

At  the  opposite  end  of  the  table  sat  Kyan,  gloomy, 
and  unassuming.  As  though  to  mock  the  King,  he 
also  leaned  on  one  elbow,  stretched  out  his  legs,  and 
looked  up  at  the  ceiling  with  a  deep  sigh. 

His  melancholy  air  gave  him  an  absurd  appearance. 

"  Hark  you,"  whispered  Fiirstenberg,  nudging 
Wackerbarth  with  his  elbow — they  were  both  tipsy  by 


The  Countess  Cosel  7 

this  time — "  do  you  see  our  lord  ?  Nothing  makes 
him  smile — and  it  is  already  eleven  o'clock — he  ought 
to  be  in  a  good  humour  by  now.  This  is  our 
fault." 

"  I  am  here  as  a  guest,"  replied  Wackerbarth, 
shrugging  his  shoulders.  "  It  is  none  of  my  business  ; 
as  you  know  him  better  than  I  do,  you  should  find  the 
proper  way  to  amuse  him." 

"He  is  tired  of  Lubomirska — that  is  clear,"  added 
Taparel. 

"  And  then  it  is  difficult  to  digest  those  Swedes," 
whispered  Wackerbarth.  "  I  do  not  wonder  at  him." 

"  Eh !  Eh !  We  have  forgotten  all  about  the 
Swedes  ;  some  one  else  will  defeat  them  for  us,  we  can 
be  sure  of  that,  and  then  we  will  go  and  gather  the 
fruits,"  said  Fiirstenberg.  "He  is  not  bothered  about 
the  Swedes,  but  he  has  had  enough  of  Lubomirska 
—we  must  find  him  some  other  woman." 

"Is  that  such  a  difficult  matter?"  whispered 
Wackerbarth. 

Then  they  began  to  whisper  together,  but  so  low 
that  they  could  not  be  overheard,  for,  as  though 
suddenly  awakened  from  slumber,  the  King  was 
looking  round  on  his  companions.  His  glance 
wandered  from  one  to  another,  until  it  rested  at  length 
on  the  tragic  pose  of  Baron  Kyan,  and  on  seeing 
this  the  monarch  burst  into  a  hearty  laugh. 

This  was  quite  sufficient  to  make  every  one  else  laugh. 

"  Kyan,"  cried  the  King,  "  what  is  the  matter  with 
you  ?  Has  your  sweetheart  betrayed  you  ?  Have  you 
no  money  ?  You  look  just  like  Prometheus,  with  an 
invisible  eagle  devouring  your  liver," 


8  The  Countess  Cosel 

Kyan  turned  slowly  round,  much  after  the  fashion 
of  a  wooden  doll,  and  drew  a  deep  sigh  ;  so  deep  was 
it  that  it  extinguished  a  six-light  candelabra  that  was 
standing  near  him. 

"  Kyan,  what   is   the  matter  with  you  ?  "  repeated 

the  King. 

"Your  Majesty,"  replied  the  Baron,  "  personally, 
there  is  nothing  the  matter  with  me.  I  am  neither 
hungry,  nor  in  love,  nor  in  debt,  nor  jealous  ;  but  I 
am  in  despair." 

"  Why  ?     What  has  happened  ?     Speak  !  " 

"  I  am  grieving  over  our  beloved  monarch ! " 
answered  Kyan.  "Born  to  be  happy;  endowed  with 
a  godlike  face,  with  Herculean  strength,  with  a 
generous  heart  ;  created  to  have  the  world  lie  at  your 
feet — and  yet  your  Majesty  is  sad  !  " 

"Yes,  that  is  true  !  "  said  Augustus,  frowning.  "  I 
am  sad  ! " 

u  Fifteen  of  us  are  sitting  here,  and  none  of  us  know 
how  to  make  you  merry  ;  the  women  betray  you,  and 
grow  old  ;  the  wine  turns  sour ;  your  money  is  stolen  ; 
and  when  in  the  evening  you  wish  to  enjoy  yourself 
in  merry  company,  your  faithful  subjects  meet  you 
with  death's-head  faces.  What  wonder,  then,  that  I, 
who  love  my  King,  am  in  despair  ?  " 

Augustus  smiled  ;  then,  seizing  a  goblet,  he  knocked 
with  it  on  the  table.  Immediately  two  dwarfs  stepped 
forth  from  behind  the  sideboard,  and  stood  before  the 
King. 

"  Iramm,"  said  the  King,  "order  a  big-bellied  bottle 
of  Ambrosia  to  be  brought  here  !  Kyan,  I  make  you 
cup-bearer." 


The  Countess  Cosel  9 

Ambrosia  was  the  name  given  to  the  Hungarian 
wine  furnished  to  the  King,  and  pressed  out  for  him 
specially  by  Count  Zichy.  It  was  the  wine  of  wines, 
thick  like  syrup,  treacherously  smooth,  but  strong 
enough  to  make  a  giant  dead  drunk. 

Iramm  and  his  companion  disappeared,  and  shortly 
afterwards  a  negro  entered,  bearing  a  silver  tray,  on 
which  was  an  enormous  bottle.  All  the  guests  rose 
at  once  and  greeted  it  with  low  bows. 

"  Kyan,  do  your  duty  !  "  cried  the  King. 

Kyan  rose.  The  dwarfs  brought  another  tray  with 
glasses  ;  but  on  the  cup-bearer  whispering  something 
to  them,  they  withdrew  behind  the  sideboard,  from 
whence  they  emerged  a  few  moments  later,  bringing 
glasses  of  various  sizes. 

With  the  dignity  of  an  official  who  is  fully  conscious 
of  the  importance  of  his  position,  Kyan  began  carefully 
arranging  the  glasses. 

In  the  centre  he  placed  a  large  and  beautiful  glass 
for  the  King,  this  he  surrounded  by  smaller  glasses 
destined  for  the  favourites,  and  outside  these  was 
another  row  of  glasses,  much  smaller  than  the  last,  so 
small  indeed  that  they  looked  like  thimbles. 

All  watched  him  with  curiosity. 

Then,  taking  the  large  bottle,  Kyan  began  to  pour 
out  the  wine,  being  careful  not  to  shake  it.  First  he 
filled  all  the  smallest  glasses.  It  is  true  that  these 
did  not  hold  much  wine,  but  there  were  so  many  of 
them  that  before  they  were  all  filled,  the  bottle  was 
half  empty.  The  cup-bearer  next  filled  the  larger 
glasses.  The  wine  in  that  large  bottle  grew  speedily 
less,  and  by  the  time  he  came  to  the  King's  glass 


to  The  Countess  Cosel 

there  was  no  wine  left.  Then  Kyan  poured  into  it 
the  lees  that  remained  at  the  bottom  of  the  bottle, 
and  looked  at  Augustus. 

"  What  a  splendid  cup-bearer  you  are,"  said  the 
King,  laughing.  "  I  am  the  last.  What  does  that 
mean  ?  " 

The  courtiers  also  laughed. 

"Your  Majesty,"  said  Kyan,  placing  the  empty 
bottle  on  the  table,  "this  is  nothing  new.  What  I 
have  done  to-day  with  the  wine  is  only  what  your 
officials  do  every  day  with  the  income  of  the  state. 
In  the  first  place,  every  small  employe  fills  his  own 
pockets,  then  the  superiors,  of  course,  do  not  forget 
themselves,  and  after  that  there  remains  nothing  for 
the  King." 

The  King  clapped  his  hands,  and  looked  round  on 
those  present. 

"  Kyan,  your  health  !  The  parable  is  worthy  of 
^Esop.  But  order  another  bottle  for  me." 

The  negro  brought  a  second  bottle  of  Ambrosia. 

All  laughed  because  the  King  laughed,  but  they 
looked  askance  at  Kyan,  who,  having  taken  the 
smallest  glass,  was  drinking  to  the  health  of  the 
Hercules  of  Saxony. 

Then  they  all  fell  on  their  knees,  and,  raising  their 
glasses,  shouted  acclamation. 

The  King  emptied  his  glass,  and  said,— 

"  Let  us  talk  of  something  else." 

Fiirstenberg  was  the  first  to  rise. 

"Your  Majesty,"  said  he,  "at  this  hour  one  should 
only  speak  of  that  which  rules  over  both  the  night  and 
the  day  ;  and  that  is  Woman." 


The  Countess  Cosel  n 

"  Good  !  "  exclaimed  the  King.  "  Let  every  one 
describe  his  favourite.  Fiirstenberg  shall  begin." 

The  King  smiled  maliciously  as  he  said  this,  and 
Fiirstenberg  made  a  grimace. 

"The  precedence  has  been  given  to  me,"  said  the 
young  favourite,  "but  this  is  only  a  proof  that  his 
Majesty  sees  everything.  The  King  knows  that  I 
cannot  lie,  and  this  is  why  he  exposes  me  to  such  a 
humiliation.  But  I  entreat  your  Majesty  to  excuse 
me  from  drawing  a  picture  of  my  favourite." 

"No,  no!''  exclaimed  several' voices.  "It  is  not 
necessary  to  give  the  portrait  a  name,  but  the  King's 
commands  must  be  obeyed." 

All  knew,  more  or  less,  why  the  young  Prince  was 
reluctant  to  speak.  This  was  a  critical  moment  of  his 
life,  for  he  was  playing  a  love  comedy  with  a  widow 
over  forty  years  of  age,  and  famous  for  the  fact  that, 
owing  to  the  thickness  of  the  paint  she  put  on  her 
face,  it  was  impossible  for  any  one  to  see  the  colour  of 
her  skin.  The  widow  was  rich,  and  Fiirstenberg  was  in 
need  of  money. 

When  they  became  too  noisy,  the  King  commanded 
silence,  and  said,— 

"  You  must  depict  this  painted  love  of  yours." 

To  gain  courage  to  perform  the  task  imposed  on 
him,  the  giddy  young  courtier  emptied  his  glass. 

"  My  love,"  said  he,  "  is  the  prettiest  lady  in  the 
world.  Who  can  deny  it?  Who  can  tell  what  is 
hidden  beneath  the  mask  which  she  puts  on  in  order 
to  prevent  common  mortals  from  looking  at  her?" 

A  loud  burst  of  laughter  here  interrupted  him. 

Beside  him  sat  Adolf  Hoym.     He  was  a  well-made 


12  The  Countess  Cosel 

man,  but  his  expression  was  disagreeable  and  his  small 
eyes  had  a  timid  look.  Hoym  was  famous  for  his  love 
adventures,  but  for  several  years  he  had  kept  them  so 
secret  that  it  was  thought  they  no  longer  had  an 
attraction  for  him.  It  was  said  that  he  had  married, 
but  no  one  had  seen  his  wife.  She  was  hidden  away 
at  his  country  house. 

Hoym  was  already  tipsy,  that  could  easily  be  told 
by  the  strange  movements  of  his  head,  and  by  the 
efforts  he  made  to  raise  his  arms  by  dropping  his 
eyelids. 

It  was  the  best  fun  possible  for  the  King  and  his 
companions  to  catch  the  Secretary  of  the  Treasury  in 
a  state  when  his  mind  could  no  longer  control  his 
tongue. 

"  Hoym'sturn  now,"  said  the  King.  "  You,  Hoym, 
can  have  no  excuse.  We  all  know  that  you  are  a 
connoisseur  of  female  beauty,  and  that  you  cannot  live 
without  love  ;  nothing  ever  goes  beyond  these  walls. 
Come,  now,  confess  !  *' 

Hoym  turned  -his  head,  and  played  with  his  glass. 

"  He!   he  !   he!"  he  laughed. 

Baron  Kyan  filled  up  his  glass. 

Hoym  seized  and  emptied  it  with  the  stupid  avidity 
of  a  drunken  man  consumed  with  a  burning  thirst. 

His  face  grew  crimson. 

"He!  he!  he!  You  wish  to  know  what  my  love 
looks  like,"  he  began.  "  But  you  must  know  that  I 
have  no  need  of  a  mistress,  for  I  have  a  wife  beautiful 
as  a  goddess  !  " 

All  burst  out  laughing,  but  the  King  looked  at  him 
inquisitively. 


The  Countess  Cosel  13 

"You  may  laugh,"  continued  Hoym,  "but  the  man 
who  has  not  seen  her,  has  not  seen  Venus,  and  I  think 
even  Venus  herself  would  look  rather  like  a  country 
washerwoman,  if  placed  beside  her.  Can  I  describe 
her?  In  her  eyes  alone  there  is  so  much  power  that 
no  mortal  could  resist  her.  Praxiteles  could  not  have 
shaped  a  more  perfect  form.  It  is  impossible  to  de- 
scribe the  charm  of  her  smile,  and  yet  the  stern  goddess 
does  not  smile  every  day." 

They  nodded,  but  without  believing  what  he  said. 
Hoym  would  have  stopped  here,  but  the  King 
said, — 

"  Describe  her  better,  Hoym." 

"  Who  can  describe  perfection  ?"  said  Hoym,  raising 
his  eyes.  "  She  possesses  every  good  quality,  and  has 
not  one  single  drawback." 

"  I  am  quite  ready  to  believe  that  she  is  beautiful," 
exclaimed  Lagnasco,  "  for  fickle  Hoym  has  been  con- 
stant to  her  for  three  years." 

"  He  exaggerates !  He  is  drunk  !  "  interrupted 
Fiirstenberg.  "  Would  you  dare  to  say  that  she  is 
more  beautiful  than  the  Princess  Teschen  ?  " 

Hoym  shrugged  his  shoulders,  and  glanced  timidly 
at  the  King,  who  said  quietly,— 

"There  must  be  no  consideration,  except  for  the 
truth.  Is  she  more  beautiful  than  Lubomirska  ?" 

"Your  Majesty,"  exclaimed  Hoym  enthusiastically, 
"the  Princess  is  a  beautiful  woman,  but  my  wife  is  a 
goddess.  There  is  not  another  woman  anywhere,  at 
the  court,  in  the  city,  in  the  whole  of  Saxony,  or  indeed 
in  the  whole  of  Europe,  who  is  as  beautiful  as  my 
wife  !  " 


14  The  Countess  Cosel 

The  hall  re-echoed  with  a  gigantic  peal  of  wild 
laughter. 

"  Hoym  is  very  amusing  when  he  is  drunk  !  " 

"How  funny  the  Secretary  to  the  Treasury  is !  " 

"  What  a  very  droll  man  !  " 

The  King  did  not  laugh.  Hoym,  under  the  influence 
of  the  Ambrosia,  had  evidently  forgotten  where  he  was, 
and  to  whom  he  was  talking. 

"  Yes,  laugh  !  "  he  exclaimed.  "  You  all  know  me  ! 
You  call  me  Don  Juan  ;  you  acknowledge  that  I  am  a 
judge  of  female  beauty.  Why  should  I  lie  ?" 

Here  he  looked  at  the  King  and  was  terrified  at  the 
expression  of  his  features.  So  terrified  was  he  that  he 
almost  became  sober.  He  would  have  liked  to  with- 
draw, but,  being  unable,  he  stood  there  pale  and 
trembling. 

In  vain  the  others  tried  to  make  him  talk  further  ; 
Hoym  only  looked  down  at  the  floor  and  became 
thoughtful. 

The  King  nodded  to  Kyan,  who  filled  Hoym's  glass 
with  Ambrosia. 

"We  have  drunk  the  health  of  our  divine  Hercules," 
cried  Fiirstenberg,  "  now  let  us  drink  to  the  health  of 
our  godly  Apollo  !  " 

Some  drank  kneeling,  others  standing  ;  Hoym,  who 
had  risen  tottering,  was  obliged  to  lean  on  the  table. 
The  effects  of  the  wine,  that  fear  had  checked  for 
a  time,  returned.  His  head  swam — he  emptied  his 
glass  at  one  draught. 

Behind  the  King's  chair  stood  Fiirstenberg,  whom 
that  monarch  caressingly  called  Flirstchen.  To  him 
Apollo  now  turned,— 


The  Countess  Cosel  15 

"  Flirstchen,"  said  he  quietly,  "  Hoy  in  has  not  lied  ; 
he  has  been  hiding  his  treasure  from  us  for  several 
years,  we  must  force  him  to  show  it  to  us.  Do  what 
you  please,  no  matter  what  the  cost,  but  we  must  see 
her." 

Fiirstenberg  smiled  ;  he  and  the  others  were  much 
pleased  at  this.  The  King's  present  mistress,  Princess 
Teschen,  had  against  her  all  the  friends  of  Chancellor 
Beichlingen,  whom  she  had  succeeded  in  overthrowing, 
and  after  whose  downfall  she  had  inherited  the  palace 
situated  in  Pirna  Street,  and  although  Ftirstenberg 
had  served  her  against  the  other  ladies  who  had  laid 
siege  to  the  King's  heart,  yet  he  was  ready  to  serve 
Augustus  against  the  whole  world.  Lubomirska's 
beauty  was  not  very  great  ;  to  tell  the  truth,  she  was 
somewhat  passde,  and  her  manners  of  a  fine  lady  had 
begun  to  weary  the  King,  who  liked  his  mistresses  to 
be  of  a  more  daring  and  more  lively  temperament. 
Ftirstenberg  had  guessed  all  this  from  the  King's 
conversation.  Rushing  across  to  Hoym,  he  leant  over 
his  chair,  and  said  aloud, — • 

"  My  dear  Count,  I  am  ashamed  of  you  !  You  have 
lied  most  impudently,  and  in  the  presence  of  the  King 
too.  You  have  been  practising  a  joke  on  him  and  on 
us.  I  admit  that  the  wife  of  such  a  connoisseur  as  ycu 
are  may,  perhaps,  not  be  a  scarecrow,  but  to  compare 
her  to  Venus,  or  even  to  the  Princess  Teschen,  that  is 
a  wretched  joke." 

Again  the  wine  began  to  act  on  Hoym's  head. 

"  What  I  have  said,"  exclaimed  he  angrily,  "  is 
nothing  but  the  truth  !  Tausend  Donner  wetter  Potz 
»nd  Blitz  T 


1 6  The  Countess  Cosel 

All  laughed  at  the  rough  exclamation,  but  at  such 
friendly  reunions  the  King  forgave  all  such  liberties; 
and,  while  he  was  drinking,  even  common  mortals 
were  allowed  to  throw  their  arms  round  his  neck, 
and  kiss  him,  and  were  not  afraid  that  their  Hercules 
would  turn  and  strangle  them. 

"  I  bet  a  thousand  ducats,"  shouted  Ftirstenberg, 
"that  your  wife  is  not  more  beautiful  than  any  of  the 
other  ladies  of  the  court." 

They  poured  more  wine  into  Hoym's  glass,  who 
now  drank  from  despair. 

"  I  accept !  "  said  he,  speaking  through  his  clenched 
teeth. 

"  I  will  be  the  judge,"  said  Augustus.  "  And  we 
cannot  postpone  sentence ;  Hoym  must  bring  his  wife 
here  immediately,  and  introduce  her  at  the  Queen's 
first  ball." 

"  Write  at  once,  Hoym !  The  King's  courier  will 
carry  the  letter  to  Laubegast,"  said  Fiirstenberg. 

"  Yes,  write  ;  write  !  "  resounded  from  all  sides. 

Paper  was  laid  before  him  in  a  moment,  and 
Fiirstenberg  put  a  pen  into  his  hand.  The  un- 
fortunate Hoym,  in  whom  the  fear  of  the  husband 
was  aroused,  as  often  as  he  remembered  the  gallantry 
of  the  King,  could  not  tell  how  he  ever  wrote  to  his 
wife,  commanding  her  to  come  to  Dresden.  But  in  the 
twinkling  of  an  eye,  the  paper  was  snatched  from  his 
hand,  and  some  one  had  rushed  with  it  into  the  court- 
yard, and  ordered  the  King's  courier  to  ride  with  it 
at  once  to  Laubegast. 

"  Fiirstenberg,"  whispered  Augustus,  "  I  can  see  by 
Hoym's  face  that,  should  he  become  sober  to-day,  he 


The  Countess  Cosel  17 

will  send  a  counter  order.     We  must  make   him  dead 
drunk." 

"  He  is  so  drunk  already,  that  I  fear  for  his  life  !" 
returned  the  Prince. 

"  I  do  not,"  replied  Augustus  quietly,  "  I  hope  I 
should  be  able  to  find  some  one  to  fill  the  office  that 
would  become  vacant  by  his  death." 

The  smile  with  which  the  King  accompanied  this 
speech  had  such  an  effect  on  those  present,  that  they 
all  crowded  round  Hoym,  pouring  wine  into  his  glass, 
and  suggesting  toasts,  with  the  result,  that  within 
half-an-hour  Hoym  fell  asleep  on  the  table,  his  face, 
pale  as  a  corpse,  his  head  hanging,  and  his  mouth 
open.  For  the  sake  of  security,  they  did  not  convey 
him  home,  but  placed  him  instead  in  one  of  the  King's 
rooms,  where  he  was  watched  over  by  the  giant 
Cojanus,  who  received  orders  not  to  let  him  return 
home,  should  he  unexpectedly  come  to  his  senses. 

Having  got  rid  of  him,  they  continued  their  carouse. 

The  King  was  now  in  an  excellent  humour,  and  the 
radiance  of  his  countenance  was  reflected  in  the  faces 
of  his  courtiers.  Day  was  already  dawning  when  two 
lackeys  carried  Augustus  the  Strong  to  bed.  He  had 
succumbed  last  of  all,  except  Fiirstenberg,  who,  taking 
off  his  wig  to  cool  his  head,  grew  thoughtful,  and 
muttered  to  himself, — 

:(  So  we  shall  have  a  new  ruler,  then.  Lubomirska 
meddled  too  much  with  politics.  She  wished  to 
subdue  the  king,  but  he  does  not  require  a  mistress 
with  brains !  She  has  to  love  him,  and  amuse  him  ; 
that  is  all  her  business.  Now  we  shall  see  the 
Countess  Hoym ! " 

C 


CHAPTER  II. 

LAUBEGAST  is  situated  on  the  banks  of  the  river  Elbe, 
two  hours'  ride  from  Dresden.  It  is  a  small  village, 
containing  only  a  few  better-class  dwellings,  and  these 
are  hidden  from  view  among  old  linden  trees,  and  tall, 
black  pines. 

Count  Hoym's  villa  was  built  in  the  French  style, 
and  ornamented  as  well  as  its  modest  size  permitted. 
It  was  evident  that  its  owner  bestowed  great  care  on 
the  beauty  of  his  house.  The  small  courtyard  was 
surrounded  by  an  iron  railing.  Seen  through  the 
sheltering  trees,  the  house  looked  like  some  lordly 
residence,  but  it  was  as  quiet  as  a  monastery. 

There  were  no  signs  of  gaiety  about  it.  Two  old 
lackeys  and  a  few  servants  might  be  seen  from  time 
to  time,  walking  near  the  house,  and  occasionally, 
towards  evening,  a  lady  would  come  forth,  on  whom 
the  population  of  Laubegast  would  gaze  with  admira- 
tion, but  always  from  behind  the  shelter  of  the  bushes. 

In  truth,  no  one  in  the  neighbourhood  had  ever 
before  seen  such  a  beautiful  woman. 

She  was  young,  and  tall,  and  a  pair  of  bright,  dark 
eyes  gave  animation  to  her  pale  face.  There  was 
something  majestic  in  her  movement  as  she  walked. 
But  she  was  sad,  like  a  figure  taken  from  a  sarcophagus 


The  Countess  Cosel  19 

—she  never  smiled.  She  had  dwelt  here  for  several 
years,  visited  by  no  one  save  Hoym's  sister,  the 
Countess  Vitzthum.  It  was  thus  that  Count  Hoym 
guarded  his  wife  from  the  intrigues  of  the  court,  and 
he  did  not  even  like  to  see  his  sister  too  frequently 
visiting  his  wife's  retreat.  The  Countess  Vitzthum, 
however,  only  shrugged  her  shoulders  contemptuously. 

The  Countess  Hoym's  only  distractions  were  the 
pious  books  of  Protestant  dreamers,  which  she  read 
with  great  avidity.  Occasionally  she  took  a  walk 
under  the  surveillance  of  the  old  butler. 

Life  here  was  monotonous,  and  quiet  as  the  grave, 
but  at  the  same  time  passions  never  entered  to  cause 
disturbances.  It  was  only  when  the  King  and  court 
were  absent,  that  the  Countess  Hoym  was  permitted 
to  visit  the  capital  for  a  short  time.  This  long 
seclusion  had  made  her  proud,  sad,  and  bitter  ;  she 
despised  the  world,  and  was  full  of  strange  asceticisms. 
She  thought  that  her  life  was  ended,  and  that  she  was 
awaiting  death,  although  she  was  very  beautiful,  and 
not  more  than  twenty  years  of  age;  but  all  who  saw 
her  could  scarcely  believe  she  was  older  than  eighteen, 
so  remarkably  youthful  was  her  appearance. 

The  Countess  Vitzthum,  who  in  the  turbulent  life  of 
the  court  had  lost  all  her  freshness  and  half  her 
beauty,  was  provoked  at  the  unfading  charms  of  her 
sister-in-law.  She  was  also  irritated  by  her  other 
good  qualities  ;  her  noble  pride  of  virtue  ;  her  indigna- 
tion at  corruption ;  her  contempt  for  intrigue  and 
lying  ;  and  last,  but  not  least,  by  the  majestic  manner 
in  which  the  Countess  Hoym  looked  upon  her  lively, 
laughing,  and  fickle  sister-in-law. 


20  The  Countess  Cosel 

Countess  Hoym,  on  her  side,  did  not  like  the 
Countess  Vitzthum  ;  she  felt  an  instinctive  repulsion 
towards  her.  For  her  husband  she  had  a  cold  con- 
tempt, having  learned  through  her  sister-in-law  that  he 
had  been  unfaithful  to  her.  By  one  tender  look,  she 
could  bring  him  to  her  feet ;  she  knew  her  power,  but 
she  had  no  wish  to  use  it.  He  seemed  to  her  too 
villainous  to  care  for.  She  received  him  coldly,  and 
parted  from  him  with  indifference.  Hoym  was  furious, 
but  he  felt  feeble  in  the  presence  of  his  wife,  and  all 
quarrels  were  stopped  by  his  taking  his  departure. 

Thus  the  sad  monotonous  life  at  Laubegast  went  on. 
Sometimes  Anna  thought  of  returning  to  Holstein, 
and  taking  up  her  abode  with  her  family  who  dwelt  at 
Borckdorf ;  but  she  was  not  on  good  terms  with  them. 
Her  father  and  mother  were  both  dead,  and  her 
sister,  the  Countess  of  Brunswick,  nte  Holstein  Plon, 
would  not  have  cared  to  see  her  at  court.  She 
remembered  only  too  well  the  behaviour  of  the  sixteen- 
years  old  Anna,  who  had  slapped  the  face  of  Prince 
Ludwig  Rudolf,  when,  attracted  by  her  marvellous 
beauty,  he  had  tried  to  kiss  her. 

Thus  it  was  that  the  beautiful  but  unfortunate  Anna 
had  no  place  to  which  she  could  turn  for  comfort. 

Notwithstanding  the  corruption  of  the  court,  and 
the  nearness  of  Dresden,  in  which  it  is  difficult  to  hide 
such  a  beautiful  being  from  the  gaze  of  the  people, 
Anna  had  been  so  carefully  concealed  in  her  retreat 
on  the  shores  of  the  Elbe,  that  despite  the  continual 
movement  of  the  lazy  gang  surrounding  the  Sovereign, 
no  one  had  noticed  her. 

Except  one, 


21 

That  one  was  a  young  Pole,  who  lived  at  the 
court,  which  he  had  been  forced  to  enter  quite  against 
his  inclination. 

The  first  time  Augustus  the  Strong  visited  Poland 
after  having  been  elected  King  of  that  country,  he 
wished  to  show  his  strength  to  the  Polish  nobles. 
With  this  intent,  he  began  one  evening,  after  dinner, 
to  break  horse-shoes  and  silver  plates.  The  Poles 
regarded  this  as  a  bad  omen  for  their  country,  and 
one  of  them,  wishing  to  break  the  spell,  said  he  knew  a 
lad  who  could  do  the  same.  The  King  felt  the  sting  con- 
veyed in  the  remark,  still  he  expressed  a  wish  to  see  his 
rival.  Thereupon  the  Bishop  of  Kujawy  promised  to 
produce  the  noble  referred  to,  who  dwelt  at  Cracow. 
His  name  was  Zaklika,  and  he  came  of  a  powerful 
family,  though  at  present  he  was  very  poor.  Then  the 
incident  was  forgotten,  and  the  Bishop  would  never 
have  mentioned  it,  being  conscious  that  he  had 
committed  an  indiscretion,  had  not  the  King  reminded 
him  of  it,  and  asked  to  see  Raymond  Zaklika. 

The  youth  had  just  ended  his  studies  at  a  Jesuit 
convent,  and  was  uncertain  what  he  should  do.  His 
wish  was  to  enter  the  army,  but  he  had  no  .money 
with  which  to  purchase  a  commission,  and,  being  a 
noble,  he  could  not  enter  otherwise.  After  long 
searching,  Zaklika  was  found.  The  Bishop  was 
obliged  to  purchase  him  a  decent  suit  of  clothes, 
before  he  could  present  him  to  the  King.  Then  he 
was  kept  ready  to  be  brought  forward  at  the  first 
favourable  moment,  for  the  King  usually  rose  to 
display  his  strength  after  he  had  feasted,  and  was  in  a 
good  humour. 


22  The  Countess  Cosel 

At  length  one  day,  when  the  King  was  breaking 
silver  cups  and  horse-shoes,  which  his  courtiers  always 
kept  in  readiness  for  him,  he  turned  to  the  Bishop,  who 
was  quietly  looking  on,  and  said,— 

"  Father,  where  is  your  Hercules  ?  " 

Zaklika  was  summoned. 

The  youth  was  straight  as  an  oak,  good-looking, 
and  modest  as  a  girl.  Augustus  smiled  on  seeing 
him.  He  could  only  converse  with  him  in  Latin,  for 
as  yet  the  youth  knew  neither  French  nor  German. 
Still  there  was  no  need  for  many  words.  Two  new 
silver  goblets  stood  before  the  King;  Augustus  took 
one  of  them,  and,  pressing  it  between  his  fingers,  bent 
it  as  though  it  had  been  a  leaf. 

Smiling  ironically,  he  pushed  the  other  towards 
Zaklika,  saying,— 

"Now  you  try.     If  you  can  bend  it,  it  is  yours." 

Timidly  the  youth  approached  the  table,  and,  taking 
the  bumper,  he  pressed  it  so  hard  that  the  blood 
rushed  to  his  head  ;  but  the  cup  was  broken  in  pieces. 

The  King's  face  was  expressive  of  great  astonish- 
ment, and  still  greater  discontent.  The  lords  who  sat 
round,  tried  to  persuade  him  that  the  cup  was  thin. 

The  King  then  turned  to  the  horse-shoes — they 
broke  beneath  his  fingers  like  dry  branches — but 
Zaklika  could  do  the  same  with  perfect  ease.  Augustus 
took  out  a  new  thaler  and  broke  it.  A  thicker  piece 
of  Spanish  money  was  handed  Zaklika.  For  a  while 
the  youth  remained  thoughtful,  then  he  grew  eager  on 
the  matter,  and  eagerness  lending  him  fresh  strength 
he  broke  the  coin. 

A    cloud    rested    on  the  King's  forehead,   and    his 


The  Countess  Cosel  23 

court  grew  sorry  that  such  a  trial  had  been  permitted. 
To  reward  Zaklika,  the  King  ordered  the  two  cups  to 
be  given  him,  then,  after  a  moment's  reflection,  he  told 
the  youth  to  remain  at  the  court.  A  small  post  was 
assigned  to  him,  but  the  next  morning  he  was  told 
quietly  never  to  dare  to  show  his  strength  in  that  way 
again,  or  some  evil  thing  might  befall  him. 

Thus  he  remained  hanging  about  the  court  ;  a 
splendid  livery  was  provided  for  him  ;  he  was  allowed 
a  few  hundred  thalers  by  way  of  salary,  and  plenty  of 
liberty,  his  only  duty  being  to  follow  the  King 
wherever  he  went.  Augustus  did  not  forget  him,  and 
gave  orders  that  he  should  be  provided  with  every 
comfort,  but  he  never  spoke  a  word  to  him.  Having 
plenty  of  time  at  his  command,  Zaklika  began  to  study 
French  and  German,  and  within  two  years  spoke  both 
languages  fluently.  Being  unable  to  spend  all  his 
time  in  study,  he  used  to  wander  about  Dresden,  visit- 
ing all  the  adjoining  villages  and  forests  on  foot.  He 
was  also  of  a  very  inquisitive  turn  of  mind,  and  climbed 
all  over  the  rocky  shores  of  the  Elbe,  yet  he  never 
met  with  any  accident. 

During  one  of  his  rambles  he  visited  Laubegast,  and 
finding  the  shade  of  the  linden-trees  very  pleasant,  lay 
down  on  the  ground  to  rest.  Unfortunately  for  him, 
it  was  about  the  time  when  the  Countess  Hoym  used 
to  take  her  walk.  On  seeing  her  the  youth  was 
petrified  with  admiration — he  could  not  breathe.  He 
rubbed  his  eyes,  thinking  he  must  be  dreaming ;  that 
so  lovely  a  being  existed  in  the  flesh,  he  could  not 
imagine.  Poor  fellow !  Thus  he  sat  until  nightfall, 
gazing  continually,  yet  being  unable  to  satisfy  his 


24  The  Countess  Cosel 

eyes.  He  thought  one  look  at  the  lovely  woman  would 
have  satisfied  him,  but  the  longer  he  looked,  the  more 
he  desired  to  gaze  on  her.  In  short,  such  passion  and 
longing  arose  within  his  breast,  that  every  day  he 
rushed  to  Laubegast  like  a  madman  ;  his  head  was 
completely  turned. 

As  he  did  not  confide  in  any  one,  he  could  obtain  no 
advice,  nor  learn  that  the  best  cure  for  such  an  illness 
is  to  avoid  the  danger. 

Soon  the  youth  was  so  much  in  love  that  he  grew 
pale  and  thin.  The  Countess's  servants  having 
noticed  him,  and  guessed  what  was  the  matter,  told 
their  lady  about  him  in  jest.  She  also  laughed,  but 
afterwards  she  looked  on  him  in  secret.  It  may  be 
that  she  took  pity  on  the  youth,  for  she  ordered  him  to 
be  brought  before  her,  and  having  scolded  him  severely 
for  tramping  round  about  her  house,  she  forbade  him 
ever  to  show  himself  there  again. 

There  being  no  one  present  at  their  interview,  the 
youth  grew  bold,  and  replied  that  he  committed  no  sin 
in  looking  at  her,  that  he  did  not  come  for  anything 
else,  and  that  even  should  they  stone  him,  he  must  still 
continue  to  come,  so  great  was  his  longing  to  see  her. 

Then  the  Countess  grew  angry,  and  threatened  to 
complain  to  her  husband,  but  this  threat  likewise  was 
without  effect.  For  several  weeks  she  avoided  the 
paths  on  which  she  was  accustomed  to  see  him,  and, 
changing  the  direction  of  her  walks,  wandered  along 
the  banks  of  the  Elbe,  until  one  day  she  noticed 
Zaklika,  standing  up  to  his  neck  in  the  river,  so  that 
he  might  be  able  to  see  her.  In  great  wrath  she  sum- 
moned the  servants,  but  with  one  plunge  Raymond 


The  Countess  Cosel  25 

had  disappeared.  For  some  time  after  this  she  saw 
nothing  of  Zaklika,  for  he  had  found  a  new  hiding- 
place  ;  thus  all  question  about  him  ceased  ;  and  no 
one  noticing  him  at  court,  he  acted  just  as  he 
pleased. 

Only  once  was  he  summoned  before  the  King.  In 
an  access  of  rage,  Augustus  the  Strong  had  cut  off 
a  horse's  head,  and  now  that  powerful  monarch  desired 
to  show  that  Zaklika  was  incapable  of  performing  this 
feat.  An  old,  strong-boned  horse  was  brought,  but  at 
the  same  time  the  youth  was  given  to  understand  that 
if  he  valued  the  King's  favour,  he  had  better  let  the 
animal  alone.  But  Raymond  was  so  carried  away  by 
the  desire  to  show  his  strength  that  he  cut  off  the 
horse's  head  as  with  a  razor.  The  King  shrugged  his 
shoulders,  and  drowned  the  memory  of  his  defeat  in 
wine.  No  one  looked  at  Zaklika,  but  those  who  were 
kindly  disposed  towards  the  youth  found  opportunity 
to  whisper  to  him  that  he  had  better  go  away  some- 
where quietly,  because  on  the  slightest  excuse  he 
would  be  sent  to  Konigstein. 

But  Raymond  was  not  in  the  least  alarmed  at  their 
words,  and  continued  his  excursions  to  Laubegast. 
His  love  had  made  quite  a  different  man  of  him.  It  is 
needless  to  say  that  Countess  Anna  Hcym  never  said 
anything  to  any  one  about  this  young  man. 

At  Laubegast  the  gates  were  always  shut  at  dusk, 
and  the  dogs  released  from  their  chains  ;  the  servants 
retired  early,  but  the  lady  of  the  house  would  sit  read- 
ing until  late  into  the  night. 

That  same  night,  when  they  were  all  drinking  at  the 
castle,  and  the  wind  was  blowing  keen  and  cold  across 


26  The  Countess  Cosel 

the  open  fields,  the  beauteous  Anna,  having  un- 
dressed, sat  reading  the  Bible,  of  which  she  was 
very  fond. 

It  was  already  far  on  into  the  night,  when  the 
tramping  of  horses'  feet  was  heard,  and  the  dogs 
began  to  bark  so  terribly  that  the  usually  fearless 
lady  grew  alarmed. 

Robbers  did  not  often  attack  houses  in  those  times, 
especially  near  the  capital,  still  such  things  did  happen 
occasionally.  The  Countess,  therefore,  rang  the  bell, 
and  aroused  all  the  servants.  Some  one  was  shaking 
the  gate  violently,  and  the  barking  of  the  dogs  grew 
fiercer  and  fiercer.  The  armed  servants  went  to  the 
gate,  where  they  found  the  King's  messenger  waiting 
impatiently,  with  a  carriage  drawn  by  six  horses.  The 
dogs  were  chained  up,  the  door  opened,  and  the 
messenger  delivered  the  letter. 

At  first  Anna  thought  some  misfortune  had  occurred 
— she  grew  pale — but  recognizing  her  husband's  hand- 
writing, her  calmness  returned.  At  that  moment 
there  recurred  to  her  mind  the  sad  fate  of  the  Chan- 
cellor Beichlingen,  who  one  night  fell  into  disgrace, 
and  was  sent  to  Konigstein.  Count  Hoym  had  fre- 
quently told  her  that  he  did  not  believe  in  the  King, 
and  that  he  should  never  feel  safe  until  he  had  crossed 
the  borders  of  his  own  principality. 

When  she  had  read  her  husband's  letter,  ordering 
her  to  come  to  Dresden  immediately,  she  was  greatly 
surprised.  She  could  not  refuse  to  go,  for  she  did  not 
wish  to  expose  herself  to  the  comments  of  the  servants 
and  besides  she  was  drawn  thither  by  curiosity.  She 
therefore  ordered  the  necessary  preparations  to  be 


The  Countess  Cosel  27 

made,  and  in  less  than  an  hour  she  had  left  quiet 
Laubegast  behind  for  ever. 

But  strange  thoughts  took  possession  of  her  during 
her  journey.  She  was  afraid  of  something,  and  this 
made  her  so  sad  that  she  nearly  wept.  She  could 
form  no  idea  of  the  danger  which  she  felt  was  threaten- 
ing her,  but  she  was  afraid  nevertheless.  She  knew 
that  the  King  had  returned,  after  an  absence  of  several 
years,  and  that  with  his  return  to  Dresden,  the  court 
was  full  of  intrigues  and  races  for  favour,  in  which 
every  possible  means,  good  or  bad,  were  employed. 
Many  of  the  things  that  happened  there,  though  appa- 
rently light  and  trivial,  were,  in  reality,  tragic. 

At  the  very  moment  when  those  who  were  sacrificed 
were  thrown  into  dark  and  terrible  prisons,  lively 
music  was  being  played  at  the  ball  given  in  honour  of 
those  who  had  been  victorious.  Often  and  often  Anna 
had  gazed  on  the  mountain  of  Konigstein,  so  full  of 
mysteries  and  of  victims. 

The  night  was  dark,  but  the  carriage,  which  was 
preceded  by  two  men  on  horseback,  carrying  torches, 
rolled  swiftly  on  its  way.  She  scarcely  noticed  when 
it  stopped  before  her  husband's  mansion,  which  was 
situated  in  Pirna  Street.  Although  the  Count  was 
expected,  the  servants  were  all  asleep,  and  it  was 
impossible  to  awake  them  immediately.  No  apart- 
ment had  been  prepared  for  the  Countess,  and  she 
shuddered  at  the  thought  of  being  obliged  to  enter  her 
husband's  room. 

The  office  of  the  Secretary  to  the  Treasury  adjoined 
the  large  hall,  which,  although  richly  furnished,  looked 
gloomy  and  sad.  On  finding  that  her  husband  was 


28  The  Countess  Cosel 

from  home,  the  Countess's  astonishment  increased  still 
more,  but  the  servants  explained  that  this  was  the 
King's  night,  and  that  the  entertainment  was  usually 
continued  until  daybreak.  Being  obliged  to  remain 
and  rest,  the  Countess  chose  a  room  situated  at  the 
opposite  side  of  the  office,  and  separated  from  all  the 
other  apartments.  In  this  she  ordered  a  camp-bed  to 
be  placed,  and  having  shut  herself  in  with  a  servant  as 
companion,  she  tried  to  sleep.  But  the  beautiful 
Countess  sought  sleep  in  vain  ;  she  only  dozed,  waking 
up  at  the  slightest  sound. 

The  day  was  already  bright,  when,  having  fallen 
asleep  for  a  few  moments,  she  was  aroused  by  hearing 
footsteps  in  the  office.  Thinking  it  was  her  husband, 
she  rose  and  dressed. 

The  morning  toilet  she  put  on  only  made  her 
appear  the  more  beautiful,  while  fatigue,  uneasiness, 
and  fever  increased  her  charms.  She  entered  the 
office,  but  instead  of  meeting  her  husband  as  she 
expected,  she  perceived  a  stranger,  whose  bearing, 
combined  with  the  expression  of  his  features,  made  a 
deep  impression  on  her. 

The  man  was  attired  in  the  long,  black  dress  of  a 
Protestant  minister.  He  was  no  longer  young  ;  he 
had  a  massive  head,  and  deeply  sunk,  dark  grey  eyes. 
His  mouth  wore  a  bitter  smile,  in  which  quiet  con- 
tempt for  the  world  was  curiously  blended  with 
serenity  and  gravity,  and  this  gave  to  his  face  an 
expression  so  striking  that  it  was  impossible  to  help 
gazing  at  him  attentively. 

The  Countess  looked  on  him  in  astonishment,  but 
he,  as  though  alarmed  at  the  apparition  of  a  woman, 


The  Countess  Cosel  29 

stood  silent  and  motionless,  with  widely-opened  eyes, 
in  which  could  be  clearly  seen  involuntary  admiration 
for  this  marvellous  m  isterpiece  of  God. 

Thus  he  stood,  his  lips  trembling,  and  his  arms 
raised  in  silent  surprise. 

The  two  strangers  looked  at  each  other,  examining 
one  another  attentively.  The  man  retreated  slowly. 
The  Countess  looked  round  for  her  husband.  She  had 
just  made  up  her  mind  to  retire,  when  the  stranger 
inquired,— 

"Who  are  you  ?" 

"  It  is  rather  I  who  should  ask  who  you  are,  and 
what  you  are  doing  in  my  house  ?  " 

"In  your  house  ?  "  repeated  the  man  in  surprise. 
"  Then  are  you  the  Count's  wife  ?" 

Anna  bowed.  The  old  man  gazed  on  her  with  eyes 
full  of  pity,  and  two  large  tears  rolled  slowly  down  his 
dried  and  yellow  cheeks. 

On  her  side  Anna  regarded  him  with  extreme 
curiosity.  This  unassuming  man,  broken  by  the  cares 
and  hardships  of  life,  seemed  to  be  animated  by  some 
unknown  sentiment ;  he  became  grave  and  majestic. 
In  his  presence  that  proud  lady  felt  almost  humble. 
The  features  of  the  silent  old  man  glowed  with  a 
secret  inspiration.  Suddenly  coming  to  his  senses,  he 
glanced  round  timidly,  and  then  advanced  a  step. 

"  Oh,  you  !  "  he  exclaimed,  "  whom  God  has  created 
for  His  glory,  you  beautiful  vase  of  virtue,  a  being 
full  of  light,  and  like  unto  an  angel  in  purity,  why  do 
you  not  shake  from  off  your  shoes  the  dust  that  now 
clings  to  them  from  their  contact  with  this  unclean 
Babylon  ?  Why,  oh  why,  do  you  not  flee  from  this 


30  The  Countess  Cosel 

place  of  corruption  ?  Who  was  so  perverse  as  to  cast 
such  a  beautiful  child  into  this  sordid  world  ?  Why 
are  you  not  afraid  ?  Are  you  not  aware  of  your 
peril?" 

Anna  listened  to  the  old  man,  whose  voice  intimi- 
dated her  for  the  first  time  in  her  life.  She  was 
indignant  at  such  daring  on  the  part  of  the  minister, 
but  she  could  not  feel  angry  with  him. 

Without  giving  her  time  to  reply,  he  continued : 

"  Do  you  know  where  you  are  ?  Are  you  aware 
that  the  ground  on  which  you  stand  shakes  beneath 
your  feet  ?  Do  you  realize  that  these  walls  open  ; 
that  people  disappear  if  they  prove  an  obstruction  ; 
and  that  here  human  life  is  a  thing  of  nought,  when  it 
interferes  with  a  single  drop  of  pleasure  ?  " 

"  What  fearful  things  you  are  telling  me,"  exclaimed 

the   Countess  at   length,  "  why  do  you  wish   to  terrify 

•> » 
me  r 

"  Because  I  see  that  you  are  innocent  and  pure,  and 
that  you  know  not  what  you  may  expect  here.  You 
cannot  have  been  here  long." 

"  Only  a  few  hours,"  replied  the  Countess. 

"  And  you  did  not  spend  your  childhood  here,  or 
you  could  not  look  as  you  do  now,"  continued  the  old 
man. 

"  My  childhood  was  spent  at  Holstein  ;  I  have  been 
Count  Hoym's  wife  for  several  years,  but  I  have  lived 
in  the  country." 

"Then  I  suppose  you  do  not  know  much  about 
your  husband  ?  "  said  the  old  man,  shivering.  "  I  pity 
you,  for  you  are  beautiful  and  innocent  as  a  lily,  and 
now  a  herd  of  savage  beasts  are  going  to  trample  on 


The  Countess  Cosel  31 

you.     'Twere  better  had  you  bloomed  and  shed  forth 
your  perfume  in  God's  desert." 

He  became  silent  and  thoughtful.  Anna  moved  a 
few  steps  nearer  to  him. 

"  Who  are  you  ? "  she  inquired. 

The  old  man  appeared  not  to  hear  her,  so  she 
repeated  her  question. 

"Who  am  I  ?"  he  repeated.  "I  am  a  sinner;  a 
wretched  being,  the  laughing-stock  of  all.  I  am  the 
voice  crying  in  the  wilderness.  I  am  he  who  predicts 
downfall,  annihilation,  and  days  of  misery.  Who 
am  I  ?  I  am  God's  messenger,  sent  to  point  out  to 
His  people  the  path  of  virtue,  but  to  whom  none  will 
hearken.  I  am  an  outcast  to  the  rich — I  am 
despised  —  but  I  am  true  and  pure  in  the  sight  of 
the  Lord.." 

The  last  words  were  spoken  quietly,  then  he  became 
silent. 

"How  strange  it  all  is!"  said  the  Countess. 
"  After  years  of  tranquillity,  passed  in  the  country,  I 
am  summoned  here  by  my  husband,  and  here  I  meet 
you,  who  are  to  me  as  a  voice  of  warning.  Surely  in 
this  there  must  be  the  finger  of  God !  " 

"  Yes,  verily  !  "  rejoined  the  old  man,  "  and  woe  to 
those  who  heed  not  God's  warning.  You  ask 
who  I  am.  I  am  a  poor  preacher,  I  have  spoken 
against  powerful  lords,  and  therefore  their  vengeance 
pursues  me.  My  name  is  Schramm.  Count  Hoym 
knew  me  when  I  was  a  mere  lad,  and  I  have  come  here 
to  ask  his  protection,  for  my  life  is  threatened.  This  is 
the  reason  I  am  here ;  but  who  brought  you  hither  ?  " 
"  My  husband,"  replied  Anna  briefly. 


32  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Ask  him  to  let  you  go  away,"  he  whispered, 
looking  timidly  round  as  he  spoke.  "  I  have  seen  all 
the  beauties  of  the  court,  and,  taken  all  together,  they 
cannot  compare  with  you  in  beauty.  Woe  be  to  you 
if  you  remain  here.  They  will  entangle  you  in  a  net 
of  intrigues ;  they  will  intoxicate  you  with  songs ; 
they  will  still  your  conscience  with  fairy-tales  ;  they 
will  accustom  you  to  shame.  Then  one  day, 
intoxicated,  weary,  feeble,  you  will  fall  over  the 
precipice.1' 

Anna  Hoym  frowned. 

"  Never  !  "  she  exclaimed.  "  I  am  not  so  feeble  as 
you  think.  I  am  aware  that  I  am  surrounded  by  peril, 
but  I  have  no  desire  for  a  life  of  luxury.  No,  the  life 
of  the  court  has  no  attractions  for  me.  I  despise  it  !  " 

"  You  must  not  trust  in  your  own  strength  ;  flee, 
flee  from  this  hell  !  " 

As  he  spoke,  he  stretched  out  his  arms,  as  though 
he  would  have  liked  to  drive  her  away.  But  Anna 
stood  motionless,  and  smiled  scornfully. 

"  But  where  could  I  go  ?  "  she  inquired.  "  My  fate 
is  bound  up  with  that  of  my  husband.  I  cannot  break 
the  ties  that  unite  me  to  him.  I  am  a  fatalist.  I 
believe  what  will  happen  will  happen — only  never  will 
they  be  able  to  conquer  me.  It  is  rather  I  who  shall 
rule  over  them." 

Schramm  looked  frightened;  Anna  stood  before  him 
full  of  strength  and  pride,  the  smile  still  on  her  lips. 

At  that  moment  the  door  opened,  and  there 
entered,  confused  and  hesitating,  Count  Adolf  Magnus 
Hoym. 

He  never  looked  very  attractive  amid  the  elegant 


The  Countess  Cosel  33 

company  of  the  King's  favourites,  but  after  a  night 
spent  in  revelry,  his  appearance  was  still  worse. 
There  was  nothing  noble  in  his  features,  and  his  face, 
which  was  commonplace,  was  only  remarkable  for  the 
quick,  convulsive  changes  it  underwent.  His  grey 
eyes  were  either  hidden  beneath  his  bushy  eyebrows, 
or  glowing  with  fire  and  animation  ;  his  lips  were  now 
smiling,  now  contorted  ;  now  his  forehead  frowned, 
but  the  next  moment  it  was  clear  and  unruffled.  It 
seemed  as  though  some  secret  power  were  continually 
struggling  within  him,  and  changing  the  expression  of 
his  features. 

Even  at  the  moment  when  he  perceived  his  wife,  it 
seemed  as  though  some  hidden  influence  were  at  work 
within  him,  giving  rise  to  the  most  contradictory 
feelings.  First  he  smiled  at  her,  but  the  next  moment 

o 

his  anger  seemed  about  to  break  forth.  With  a  violent 
effort,  however,  he  controlled  himself,  and  entered  the 
room.  But  on  perceiving  Schramm,  his  eyebrows 
contracted,  anger  was  clearly  visible  on  his  face. 

"You  madman,  you  fanatic,  you  clown!"  he 
shouted,  without  waiting  to  speak  a  word  to  his  wife. 
"  You  have  been  doing  some  fresh  mischief,  and  again 
you  come  to  me  to  help  you  out  of  your  difficulty. 
But  I  cannot  help  you.  You  act  as  you  please.  You 
think  that  a  minister  may  do  anything ;  and  that  you 
can  declare  what  you  call  God's  message  to  every  one. 
You  fancy  you  can  play  the  part  of  an  apostle.  But  I 
tell  you  again,  as  I  have  told  you  a  hundred  times 
already,  that  I  cannot  help  you." 

The  minister  stood  motionless,  gazing  into  the 
Count's  eyes. 

D 


34  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  But  I  am  God's  servant,"  he  rejoined.  "  I  have 
sworn  to  bear  witness  to  the  truth,  and  if  they  desire 
to  make  a  martyr  of  me,  I  am  ready." 

"A  martyr!"  laughed  Hoym,  "that  would  be  too 
great  a  favour,  they  will  kick  you  out,  that  is  all  ! " 

"  Then  I  shall  go,"  said  Schramm,  "but  so  long  as 
I  am  in  Dresden  I  shall  speak  the  truth." 

"  And  you  will  preach  to  deaf  people,"  retorted  the 
Count  sarcastically,  shrugging  his  shoulders  as  he 
spoke.  But  enough  of  this,  do  what  you  please,  I 
should  be  glad  if  I  could  protect  myself.  I  told  you  to 
keep  quiet.  In  these  times  you  must  flatter  or  you 
will  be  trampled  on,  and  perish.  Sodom  and  Gomorrah 
indeed !  Good-bye,  I  have  no  more  time." 

Schramm  bowed  without  a  word,  cast  a  pitying 
glance  on  Hoym's  wife,  and  then,  after  gazing  on  the 
Count  for  a  moment  in  silent  surprise,  he  turned  to 
leave  the  room. 

Hoym  pitied  him. 

"  I  am  sorry  for  you  ;  go !  I  will  do  my  best  to 
help  you ;  but  read  your  Bible  and  say  nothing.  This 
is  the  last  time  I  shall  advise  you." 

Schramm  went,  and  husband  and  wife  were  left 
alone. 


CHAPTER   III. 

EVEN  now  Hoym  did  not  greet  his  wife,  evidently  he 
was  at  a  loss  what  to  say,  and  was  in  consequence 
embarrassed  and  angry.  Seizing  his  wig,  he  began  to 
pull  at  it. 

"  Whv  did  you  summon  me  so  hastily  ?  "  said  the 
Countess  proudly,  with  reproach  in  her  tones. 

"Why?''  exclaimed  Hoym,  raising  his  eyes,  and 
rushing  to  and  fro  across  the  room  like  a  madman. 
"  Why  ?  Because  I  was  crazy !  Because,  those 
scoundrels  made  me  drunk  !  Because  I  did  not  know 
what  I  was  doing !  Because  I  am  an  idiot  and  an 
ass!  " 

"  Then  I  can  return  ?  "  asked  Anna. 

"  You  cannot  return  from  hell !  "  shouted  Hoym. 
"  And  thanks  to  me  you  are  now  in  hell !  " 

He  tore  open  his  waistcoat  as  he  spoke,  and  sank 
into  a  chair. 

"  Yes,"  he  continued,  "  I  shall  go  mad !  but  I 
cannot  make  war  against  the  King !  " 

"  What  do  you  mean  ?  " 

"The  King,  Fiirstenberg,  Vitzthum,  all  of  them, 
my  own  sister  too,  for  aught  I  know  to  the  contrary, 
all  have  conspired  against  me.  They  have  learned 


36  The  Countess  Cosel 

that  you  are  beautiful  ;  that  I  am  an  idiot ;  and  the 
King  has  ordered  me  to  show  you  to  him." 

"  Who  told  them  about  me  ?"  inquired  the  Countess 
quietly. 

Hoym  was  silent,  he  could  not  say  that  he  himself 
had  done  it ;  he  gnashed  his  teeth,  and  sprang  from 
the  chair.  Suddenly  his  anger  changed  to  cool  and 
biting  irony. 

"  Let  us  talk  reasonably,"  said  he,  lowering  his 
voice.  "  I  cannot  undo  what  is  done.  I  asked  you 
to  come  here  because  it  was  the  King's  wish,  and  you 
know  that  Jupiter  launches  his  thunder-bolts  at  anyone 
who  thwarts  his  will.  Everything  and  everybody 
must  contribute  to  his  amusement — -he  tramples 
other  persons'  treasures  beneath  his  feet,  and  then 
casts  them  on  the  dung-hill !  " 

Again  he  began  his  walk  up  and  down  the  room. 

"  I  have  laid  a  wager  with  the  Count  von  Fiirsten- 
berg  that  you  are  more  beautiful  than  all  the  ladies  at 
the  court.  Was  I  not  an  idiot  ?  I  allow  vou  to 

•/ 

answer  me  that.  The  King  is  to  be  the  judge,  and  I 
shall  win  the  thousand  ducats." 

Anna  frowned,  and  turned  from  him  in  the  greatest 
contempt. 

"  You  villain  !  "  she  exclaimed  angrily.  "  First  you 
keep  me  shut  up  like  a  slave,  and  now  you  bring 
me  forward  like  an  actress  on  the  stage,  to  help  you  to 
win  your  wager,  by  the  brightness  of  my  eyes  and  the 
smiles  of  my  lips.  Could  any  one  conceive  deeper 
infamy  ? " 

"  Do  not  spare  me  ;  you  may  say  what  you  please," 
said  Hoym,  full  of  grief  and  remorse.  "  I  deserve 


The  Countess  Cosel  37 

everything  you  can  say.  I  possessed  the  most 
beautiful  woman  in  the  whole  land  ;  slvj  smiled  only 
for  me.  I  was  proud  and  happy.  Then  the  devil 
made  me  drown  my  common  sense  in  a  few  cups  of 
wine." 

He  wrung  his  hands. 

"  I  am  going  home,"  said  the  Countess.  "  I  shall 
not  remain  here  ;  I  should  be  ashamed.  Order  my 
carriage  !  " 

She  moved  towards  the  door ;  Hoym  smiled 
bitterly. 

"  Your  carriage  !  "  he  repeated.  You  do  not  realize 
where  you  are.  You  are  almost  a  prisoner,  you 
cannot  leave  this  house.  I  should  not  be  surprised  to 
find  that  guards  had  been  placed  before  the  door. 
Even  should  you  succeed  in  escaping,  the  dragoons 
would  pursue  and  bring  you  back.  No  one  would 
dare  to  help  you." 

The  Countess  wrung  her  hands  in  despair.  Hoym 
looked  at  her  with  mingled  feelings  of  jealousy,  grief, 
meanness,  and  sorrow. 

"  Listen  to  me,"  said  he,  touching  her  hand, 
perhaps  it  is  not  so  bad  as  I  think.  Those  who  wish 
to  perish,  can  easily  perish  here.  But  you,  if  you  like, 
need  not  look  beautiful  ;  you  might  look  severe, 
forbidding  ;  you  might  even  look  repulsive,  and  thus 
save  yourself  and  me." 

Here  he  lowered  his  voice. 

"  You  know  our  King,"  continued  he,  with  a 
strange  smile ;  "  he  is  a  most  munificent  lord,  he 
scatters  broadcast  the  gold  I  am  compelled  to  extort 
from  his  poor  subjects.  There  is  not  a  monarch  more 


38  The  Countess  Cosel 

munificent  than  he,  but  at  the  same  time  there  is  not 
a  monarch  who  requires  such  continual  pleasures.  He 
breaks  horse-shoes,  and  he  breaks  women  ;  then  he 
casts  them  both  away.  The  friend  he  embraces 
to-day,  he  imprisons  to-morrow  in  Konigstein.  He 
is  a  good  King!  He  smiles  until  the  last  moment  on 

o  .  o 

the  victims  he  is  sending  to  the  scaffold.  He  has 
a  compassionate  heart,  but  no  one  must  oppose  him." 

He  dropped  his  voice  still  lower,  looking  round  the 
room  suspiciously. 

"  He  likes  new  mistresses:  like  the  dragon  in  the 
fairy  tale,  he  lives  on  the  maidens  brought  him  by 
the  frightened  population ;  he  destroys  them.  Who 
can  count  the  number  of  his  victims  ?  You  may 
perhaps  have  heard  the  names  of  some  of  them, 
but  the  number  of  those  who  are  unknown  is  three 
times  greater  than  the  number  of  those  whose  names 
are  recorded.  The  King  is  a  man  of  strange  taste  ; 
for  two  days  he  is  in  love  with  the  lady  dressed  in  silks  ; 
then  tiring  of  her  he  is  ready  to  love  the  woman  in  rags. 
Konigsmark  is  still  beautiful  ;  Spiegel  is  by  no  means 
plain  ;  Princess  Teschen  still  enjoys  his  favours  ;  but 
he  is  tired  of  them  all.  Again  he  is  seeking  whom 
he  may  devour !  Ah  !  he  is  a  great  lord !  He  is 
beautiful  as  Apollo,  strong  as  Hercules,  lecherous  as  a 
Satyr,  and  terrible  as  Jupiter." 

"  Why  are  you  telling  me  all  this  ? "  exclaimed  Anna 
angrily.  "  Do  you  think  I  am  so  wicked,  that  at 
the  King's  desire  I  should  forsake  the  path  of  honour  ? 

It    is   plain    you    do    not    yet  know  me  !     You  insult 

i  » 
me ! 

Hoym  looked  on  her  with  compassion. 


The  Countess  Cosel  39 

"  I  know  my  Anna,"  replied  he,  "  but  I  also  know 
the  court,  the  King,  and  the  people  who  surround 
him." 

''  I  have  sworn  to  be  faithful  to  you,  and  that  is 
sufficient,"  she  retorted  proudly.  You  do  not  possess 
my  heart,  it  is  true,  but  you  have  my  word.  Women 
such  as  I  do  not  break  their  vows." 

"  The  Princess  Teschen  is  proud  !  " 

Anna  shrugged  her  shoulders  contemptuously. 

"  I  can  be  a  wife,"  exclaimed  she,  "  but  I  could 
never  be  a  mistress.  I  could  not  endure  that  such 
shame  should  rest  upon  my  brow." 

"  Shame  !  "  repeated  Hoym.  "  It  only  burns  for  a 
time  ;  the  wound  soon  heals,  although  the  scar  remains 
for  ever." 

"You  are  disgusting!"  interrupted  the  Countess 
angrily.  "  You  have  brought  me  here,  and  now 
you  insult  me  with  your  vile  insinuations." 

Emotion  checked  her  utterance ;  and  Hoym  said 
humbly, — 

"  Forgive  me,  1  have  lost  my  reason.  I  know  not 
what  I  am  saying.  To-morrow  has  been  appointed 
for  the  court  ball.  The  King  has  commanded  me  to 
attend  with  you  ;  you  will  be  presented  to  him.  It 
seems  to  me,"  added  he  softly,  "  that  you  can  do  any- 
thing you  wish — you  can  even  not  look  beautiful. 
I  am  willing  to  lose  my  wager." 

Anna  turned  away  contemptuously. 

u  You  ask  me  to  act  a  comedy  to  save  your 
honour !  "  said  she,  with  a  sarcastic  smile,  "  but  I  hate 
falsehood.  Your  honour  is  not  at  stake.  Anna 
Countess  von  Brockdorf  does  not  belong  to  the  class  of 


40  The  Countess  Cosel 

women  who  can  be  purchased  for  a  handful  of 
diamonds.  Not  a  word  more.  I  despise  you  all.  I 
shall  not  be  present  at  the  ball !  " 

Hoym  grew  pale. 

"  You  must  be  present,"  said  he,  in  an  agitated 
voice.  "  This  is  not  a  question  of  a  childish  fancy  ; 
my  head  and  wealth  are  at  stake.  The  King  has 
issued  his  commands." 

"  I  do  not  care !  "  retorted  Anna. 

"  You  intend  to  disobey  the  King  ? "  inquired 
Hoym. 

"Why  not?  He  rules  over  everything,  I  know, 
but  he  does  not  rule  over  family  life.  What  can  he  do 
to  me  ? " 

"Nothing  to  you,"  replied  Hoym,  uneasily.  "  He 
is  only  too  polite  to  beautiful  women,  but  he  will  send 
me  to  Konigstein,  and  confiscate  our  estates.  Misery 
and  death  threaten  us  !  " 

He  covered  his  face  with  his  hands. 

"You  do  not  know  him,"  he  whispered.  "He 
beams  and  smiles  like  Apollo,  but  all  the  time  he 
is  terrible  as  the  god  of  thunder-bolts.  He  has  never 
yet  forgiven  any  one  who  doubted  that  he  was  all- 
powerful.  You  must  be  present  at  the  ball,  or  I  shall 
perish !  " 

"  Do  you  think,  then,  that  the  threat  of  your  peril  is 
so  terrible  to  me  ?  < 

She  shrugged  her  shoulders  and  walked  towards  the 
w  indow, 

Hoym  followed  her,  pale  as  a  ghost. 

"  For  God's  sake  listen  to  reason  ! "  he  exclaimed, 
"  You  cannot  intend  disobeying  the  King's  commands." 


The  Countess  Cosel  41 

He  had  scarcely  finished  speaking,  when  there  was 
a  tap  at  the  door,  and  a  lackey  entered.  Hoym 
frowned. 

"  The  Countesses  Reuss  and  Vitzthum,"  announced 
the  servant. 

Hoym  rushed  towards  the  door,  and  was  just  about 
to  send  the  lackey  with  a  message  that  he  could  not 
receive  any  one,  when  he  beheld  the  beautiful  Countess 
Reuss,  and,  behind  her,  his  own  sister. 

He  had  thought  that  as  yet  no  one  knew  of 
his  wife's  arrival,  but  the  visit  of  these  two  ladies 
convinced  him  that  the  folly  he  had  committed  when 
drunk  had  already  made  him  the  laughing-stock  of 
the  town. 

Much  confused,  he  ordered  the  servant  to  leave 
the  room. 

Countess  Reuss,  fresh  and  pretty,  although  a  little 
too  plump,  and  with  a  charming  smile  lighting  up  her 
features,  had  nothing  terrible  in  her  appearance,  yet, 
looking  at  her,  Count  Hoym  grew  still  more  confused, 
as  though  some  fresh  misfortune  threatened  him 
through  her. 

Countess  Vitzthum  easily  read  her  brother's  feelings 
in  his  eyes,  yet  despite  the  Count's  evident  embarrass- 
ment, the  two  ladies  continued  smiling  pleasantly. 

"  Hoym ! "  said  Countess  Reuss,  in  her  sweet, 
melodious  voice,  "  I  really  ought  to  be  angry  with  you. 
Here  is  your  wife  come  to  Dresden,  and  you  never 
told  me  a  word  about  it.  I  learned  it  from  Hulchen 
by  a  pure  accident.'' 

"What?"  exclaimed  the  .Count  impatiently. 
"  Even  Hulchen  knows  of  it  already  ? " 


42  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Oh,  yes  !  She  and  every  one  are  talking  of  it. 
They  say  that  at  length  you  have  shown  some 
common  sense,  and  that  your  wife  will  no  longer 
be  condemned  to  wither  away  in  the  desert." 

She  approached  the  Countess  as  she  spoke,  looking 
at  her  inquisitively. 

"How  are  you,  my  dear  Countess?"  said  she, 
shaking  hands  with  her.  "  How  delighted  I  am  to 
welcome  you  here  in  your  proper  place.  I  am  your 
first  visitor,  but,  believe  me,  it  is  not  curiosity  that  has 
prompted  this  visit,  but  an  earnest  desire  to  serve  you. 
To-morrow  you  will  appear  at  the  Queen's  ball,  my 
beautiful  hermit.  You  do  not  know  Dresden  ;  I 
entreat  you  command  my  service.  Your  sister-in-law 
and  I  have  been  uneasy  about  you.  Poor  frightened 
birdie." 

During  this  speech,  the  lady  whom  the  Countess 
Reuss  had  called  a  frightened  bird  had  stood  proud 
and  erect,  looking  just  as  though  she  had  ruled  in  this 
mansion  for  years  past. 

"  I  thank  you  !  "  she  replied  coldly.  "  My  husband 
has  just  told  me  of  the  ball.  But  is  my  presence 
necessary  ?  Can  I  not  be  taken  ill  from  emotion  that 
so  great  a  favour  has  been  shown  me  ? " 

"  I  should  not  advise  you  to  make  any  such 
pretext,"  replied  Countess  Reuss,  whom  Hoym  was 
leading  to  the  gloomy  reception  room.  "  No  one 
would  believe  that  you  were  ill,  for  you  look  exactly 
like  Juno,  full  of  health  and  strength;  and  no  one 
would  believe  that  you  were  frightened  either,  for  you 
are  perfectly  fearless." 

Countess  Vitzthum  took  her  sister's  arm,  and  taking 


The  Countess  Cosel  43 

advantage  of  the  moment  when  her  brother  could  not 
hear  what  she  said,  whispered,-— 

"Dear  Anna!  there  is  no  reason  for  you  to  fear, 
or  to  excuse  yourself;  now  at  last  your  captivity  is  at 
an  end.  You  shall  see  the  court,  the  King,  and  all  our 
splendour,  which  is  unrivalled  throughout  the  whole  of 
Europe.  I  congratulate  you.  I  am  convinced  that  a 
most  splendid  future  awaits  you." 

"  I  had  become  so  accustomed  to  my  life  of  tran- 
quillity," replied  the  Countess,  "that  I  desired  nothing 
different." 

"  Hoym,"  continued  Countess  Vitzthum,  <(  will  be 
consumed  with  jealousy."  Then  she  laughed. 

The  three  ladies  and  the  confused  Secretary  to  the 
Treasury  were  still  standing  in  the  reception  room, 
when  the  lackey  summoned  Count  Hoym  from  the  apart- 
ment. As  soon  as  he  had  gone,  Countess  Reuss  seated 
herself,  and  addressing  her  beautiful  hostess,  said, — 

"  My  dear,  it  is  such  a  pleasure  to  me  to  be  the 
first  to  welcome  you  at  the  commencement  of  your 
new  life.  Believe  me,  I  can  be  useful  to  you.  Hoym 
most  unwillingly  gave  you  this  opportunity,  which  if 
rightly  used,  will  carry  you  very  high  indeed.  You 
are  beautiful  as  an  angel.'' 

Countess  Hoym  was  silent  for  a  moment,  then  she 
replied  coldly, — 

"  You  are  mistaken,  dear  Countess,  in  thinking  I 
am  ambitious.  The  foolish  years  of  my  life  are  long 
past.  Whilst  living  in  my  quiet  country  home,  I  was 
obliged  to  think  much  both  about  myself  and  the  world, 
and  now  my  only  wish  is  to  return  to  the  country,  and 
continue  my  study  of  the  Bible." 


44  The  Countess  Cosel 

Countess  Reuss  laughed. 

"  Everything  will  be  changed  now,"  said  she.  "  At 
present  let  us  talk  about  your  gown  for  to-morrow's 
ball.  Vitzthum,  you  and  I  must  advise  her  what  to 
wear  ;  she  will  not  do  her  beauty  justice  if  left  to 
herself.  You  must  take  care  of  the  honour  of  your 
brother's  house." 

"  She  will  be  the  prettiest  person  there,  no 
matter  how  she  dresses,"  replied  Countess  Vitzthum. 
"Teschen  cannot  be  compared  to  her — she  is  withered. 
There  is  not  another  woman  at  court  that  can  be 
compared  to  Anna.  In  my  opinion,  the  more  modest 
the  gown  is,  the  more  becoming  it  will  be  to  her ;  let 
others  have  recourse  to  artifices." 

The  conversation  about  silk  and  stuff  that  followed 
became  both  animated  and  polemical.  At  first 
Countess  Hoym  took  no  part  in  it,  but  sat  listening 
to  the  two  friends,  who,  however,  were  very  careful  not 
to  arouse  her  suspicions.  But  little  by  little,  she  was 
drawn  by  that  magnetic  attraction  that  dress  always 
exercises  over  the  mind  of  every  woman.  She  said  a 
word  or  two,  and  soon  their  conversation,  mingled 
with  laughter,  flowed  on  smoothly  and  swiftly. 

Countess  Reuss  listened  attentively  to  every  word 
her  hostess  uttered,  regarding  her  all  the  time  with  a 
strange  uneasiness  ;  from  time  to  time  she  questioned 
her,  hoping  to  discover  some  hidden  meaning  in  her 
replies.  Countess  Hoym  soon  forgot  her  irritation, 
and  becoming  animated,  laughed,  uttered  witticisms 
suited  to  her  age,  and  kept  up  an  easy  flow  of  conversa- 
tion that  sparkled  with  intelligence.  Countess  Reuss 
laughed. 


The  Countess  Cosel  45 

"  Anna  !  "  she  exclaimed,  "  you  are  charming  ! 
Enchanting!  Incomparable!  To-morrow  evening 
you  will  have  the  whole  court  at  your  feet.  Hoym 
will  have  to  see  that  his  pistols  are  in  readiness. 
Teschen  will  be  taken  ill ;  she  will  faint — she  has  a 
penchant  for  fainting,  it  is  such  an  opportunity  for 
displaying  her  charms  !  " 

Countess  Vitzthum  laughed.  Then  Countess  Reuss 
went  on  to  relate  how  the  Princess  Lubomirska  had 
captivated  the  King's  heart  by  fainting  when  he  fell 
from  his  horse.  They  both  fainted,  for  the  King, 
having  been  severely  wounded,  lost  consciousness. 
Her  awakening  was  charming,  for  when  she  opened 
her  eyes,  Augustus  was  kneeling  at  her  feet. 

"  But  alas  !  "  added  Countess  Reuss,  "  to-day,  even 
though  she  should  faint,  the  King  would  no  longer  be 
pleased  with  her.  His  first  rapture  is  over.  At 
Leipzic  fair,  he  amused  himself  with  some  French 
actresses.  But  worse  than  that,  they  say  he  fell  madly 
in  love  with  the  Princess  Anhalt-Dessau,  but  that 
he  was  disappointed  by  her  coldness.  He  has  told 
Filrstenberg  that  his  heart  is  free,  and  that  he  is 
ready  to  offer  it  to  some  other  beauty." 

"  I  hope,  my  dear  Countess,"  said  Anna  proudly, 
"  that  you  do  not  compare  me  with  French  actresses. 
The  King's  heart  is  not  a  very  attractive  present, 
and  mine  is  of  more  value  than  to  be  satisfied  with  the 
remnants  of  a  heart  formerly  the  property  of  the 
Princess  Teschen." 

Countess  Reuss  blushed. 

<(  Be  quiet,  child,"  said  she,  looking  round  ;  "  who  has 
said  anything  of  the  kind  ?  We  prattle  about  every- 


46  The  Countess  Cosel 

thing,  and  it  will  do  you  no  harm  to  be  prepared  for 
any  emergency.  We  will  send  you  our  dressmaker, 
and  if  you  have  not  brought  your  diamonds,  or  should 
you  require  others,  Mayer  will  lend  you,  secretly, 
anything  you  want." 

With  this  both  ladies  rose,  and  began  to  take  leave 
of  their  hostess,  who  conducted  them,  in  silence,  to 
the  door.  Hoym  was  already  busy  in  his  office. 

After  entering  the  Countess  Reuss's  carriage,  both 
ladies  remained  for  a  time  silent  and  thoughtful.  The 
Countess  Vitzthum  was  the  first  to  speak. 

"  What  do  you  prophesy  ?  "  she  asked. 

<(  Hoym  can  consider  himself  a  widower,"  replied 
her  companion,  in  a  whisper.  "  She  is  proud,  and 
for  a  long  while  will  resist  the  good  fortune  offered 
her,  but  there  is  nothing  that  makes  the  King  more 
enthusiastic  than  resistance.  She  is  beautiful,  daring, 
witty,  and  quaint ;  and  all  these  are  qualities  that  not 
only  attract,  they  also  bind.  We  must  manage  to  be 
on  the  best  of  terms  with  her  now  ;  later,  when  she 
has  taken  hold  of  the  reins,  it  will  be  too  late.  I  will 
help  you,  and  you  must  help  me.  Through  her  we 
shall  hold  the  King,  the  secretaries,  everybody,  and 
everything.  Teschen  is  lost,  and  I  am  glad  of  it, 
for  I  could  never  get  anything  from  that  tedious, 
sentimental  Princess.  Besides  she  has  got  quite 
enough  ;  her  son  is  recognized,  she  has  obtained  a 
title ;  she  is  enormously  rich  ;  she  has  ruled  us  too 
long  already.  The  King  is  tired  of  her,  and  now, 
more  than  ever,  he  requires  consolation  and  distrac- 
tion. Flirstenberg,  you  and  I  must  overthrow  that 
stranger.  Only  we  must  be  wary,  for  Anna  will  not 


The  Countess  Cosel  47 

allow  herself  to  be  taken  by  storm — she  is  too 
proud." 

"Poor  Hoym!  "  laughed  Countess  Vitzthum.  "  But 
if  only  he  had  some  sense —  " 

"He  would  profit  by  her,"  interposed  Countess 
Reuss.  u  He  did  not  love  her  any  longer,  the  old 
libertine,  arid  he  himself  prepared  the  drama  of  which 
he  will  be  the  victim." 

"  I  distrust  Flirstenberg." 

Countess  Reuss  looked  at  her  inquisitively,  and  a 
spark  of  irony  glittered  in  her  eyes  ;  she  shrugged  her 
shoulders. 

"  There  are  some  people  who  are  predestined  !  " 
said  she  sneeringly. 

Suddenly  she  began  to  laugh. 

"  Do  you  know,"  she  continued,  "she  should  wear 
an  orange  dress,  and  coral  ornaments.  She  has  black 
hair,  and  the  fresh  complexion  of  a  child.  Such  a 
costume  would  be  most  becoming  to  her.  Did  you 
notice  what  fire  she  has  in  her  eyes  ?" 

"And  how  proud  she  unfortunately  is!"  said 
Countess  Vitzthum. 

"  Let  her  once  see  the  King,"  rejoined  Countess 
Reuss;  "  let  Augustus  once  wish  to  please  her,  and 
I  warrant  she  will  soon  lose  her  pride." 


CHAPTER    IV. 


IN  Pirna  Street,  which  in  times  of  yore  was  the  most 
elegant  street  in  the  small  walled  city  of  Dresden, 
stood  Beichling  House,  once  the  residence  of  the 
unfortunate  Chancellor,  who  was  now  a  prisoner  at 
Konigstein.  Princess  Lubomirska,  nee  Bohun,  di- 
vorced from  her  husband,  the  master  of  the  pantry  at 
Lithuania,  and  beloved  by  Augustus  II.,  who,  after 
the  birth  of  her  son,  the  famous  Chevalier  de  Saxe,1 
had  created  her  Princess  Teschen,  had  received 
Beichling  House  as  a  reward  for  the  overthrow  of  the 
Chancellor,  in  which  she  had  greatly  assisted.  And  it 
was  in  this  palace  that  she  always  resided,  when  not 
living  on  her  estates  at  Hoyersverd.  But  now  a  change 
had  come.  Those  first  years  of  passionate  love  and 
knightly  gallantry,  when  the  beautiful  King  could  not 
live  for  a  single  day  without  his  dear  Ursula,  and  when 
the  charming  Princess,  then  but  twenty  years  of  age, 
galloped  forth  impatiently  to  meet  her  royal  lover, 
were  gone ;  those  happy  times  passed  in  Warsaw,  in 
travelling  through  Germany,  in  splendid  balls  at  Dres- 
den and  Leipzic,  seemed  to  have  departed  for  ever. 
Ever  since  that  ball  at  Leipzic,  when,  to  punish  the 

1  Maurice  Saxe,  the  famous  French  general. 


CHAPTER     IV. 

1'irna  Street,  which  in  times  of  yore  was  the  most 

in   the   small  walled 

tiling    House,   once  tl  '    the 

un?<-  •  Chancellor,    who  was    now   a  prisoner 

tein.       Pri;  .ubomirska,    nee    Bolutn,    di- 

n  her  h  the  master  of  the  pantry  at 

<i    by    Augustus   II.,   who,  after 

the  famous  Chevalier  de  Saxe,1 

Princess    Tesch(  !    received 

reward  for  of  the 

•h  she  had  Vnd  it 

that  she  a  uen  not 

,t  Hoyersverd.     Bu  change 

first  years  of  passionate   love  and 

tllantry,  when  the  beautiful   King  could  not 

a  single  day  without  his  dear  Ursula,  and  when 

charming  Princess,  then  but   twenty  years  of  age, 

d    forth    impatiently    to    meet  her  royal  lo 
;  e  gone ;  those  happy  times  passed  in  Warsaw,  in 
travelling  through  Germany,  in  splendid  balls  at  Dres- 
den and  Leipzic,  seemed  to  have  departed  for  ever. 
Ever  since  that  ball  at  Leipzic,  when,  to  punish  the 

;ie  famous  French  general. 

The   Priii-  hen 


The  Countess  Cosel  49 

gallantry  of  Augustus  II.,  who  was  paying  court  to  the 
Princess  Anhalt-Dessau,  the  merciless  Queen  of 
Prussia,  Sophia  Caroline,  had  assembled  that  monarch's 
three  ex-mistresses,  Aurora  Konigsmark,  the  Countess 
Esterle,  and  Frau  Haugwitz,  in  order  to  confuse 
him  and  Princess  Teschen — ever  since  that  ball, 
although  it  had  ended  in  the  most  tender  assurances 
of  constancy  on  the  part  of  the  King,  Princess  Teschen 
had  felt  uneasy.  She  was  always  thinking  that  she 
too  might  be  abandoned  by  the  inconstant  Augustin.1 
It  was  true  that,  despite  his  secret  love  affairs,  the 
King  always  showed  great  respect  and  affection  for 
Princess  Teschen.  She  had  considerable  influence 
over  him,  and  was  very  skilful  in  leading  him  with 
golden  reins,  held  by  a  slender  white  hand,  but  still 
she  felt  that  the  King  might  abandon  her  at  any 
moment. 

Her  mirror  told  her  that  she  still  preserved  that 
beauty  and  freshness  of  which  she  took  such  care ;  but 
that  beauty  and  freshness  no  longer  possessed  the 
charm  of  novelty  for  the  King,  and  he  easily  grew 
weary,  and  always  required  something  new  and  fresh 
to  distract  him.  He  enjoyed  the  conversation  of  the 
beautiful  Princess  ;  he  liked  her  cleverness  in  court 
intrigues,  her  policy  covered  by  a  veil  of  womanly 
frivolity,  her  perfumed  perversity,  and  the  skilful 
manner  in  which  she  used  the  entangled  intrigues  of 
others  for  her  own  benefit.  Augustus  used  still  to  visit 
her  for  a  couple  of  hours,  or  more,  but  had  the  Queen 

1  This  was   the  name  familiarly  given   to  the  King,  and  the 
popular  song,  " Me  in  Lieber  Augustin^  referred  to  him. 

E 


50  The  Countess  Cosel 

asked  her  to-day,  as  she  had  on  a  former  occasion, 
when  she  intended  to  leave  Dresden,  she  could  not,  as 
she  had  done  then,  reply  boldly,  that  as  she  had  come 
with  the  King,  so  would  she  leave  with  him.  Thus 
her  beautiful  blue  eyes  were  veiled  by  a  cloud  of  sad- 
ness, but  the  softness  in  those  eyes,  so  full  of  melan- 
choly, was  misleading,  for  the  Princess  possessed  an 
iron  perseverance  when  endeavouring  to  attain  a 
desired  object.  From  day  to  day  her  uneasiness  in- 
creased, she  feared  every  moment  to  receive  an  order  to 
leave  Dresden,  and  such  an  order  would  separate  her 
from  the  King  for  ever. 

Outwardly  all  was  still  unchanged,  she  was  still  re- 
spected at  court,  but  she  read  her  approaching 
downfall  in  the  eyes  of  the  courtiers,  and  from  time  to 
time  she  noticed  ironical  smiles,  and  malicious  glances 
cast  in  her  direction. 

The  Princess  loved  Augustus,  she  loved  him  pas- 
sionately, and  she  had  even  thought  that  the  volatile 
King  would  settle  down,  and  that  she  would  one  day 
become  Queen,  but  these  illusions  had  vanished.  She 
felt  now  that  she  was  bound  to  meet  the  same  fate  as 
her  lord's  former  favourites.  Disenchanted  and  dis- 
appointed, she  occasionally  recovered  her  former  gaiety 
and  coquettishness  when  she  desired  to  please  the  King, 
but  when  in  her  palace  she  wept  secretly,  and  promised 
herself  revenge.  Letters  were  now  despatched  to  Rad- 
ziejowski,  Primate  of  Poland,  more  frequently  than  ever. 
The  King,  however,  was  aware  of  the  peril  of  incurring 
the  Princess's  wrath,  as  she  was  niece  to  the  first  dig- 
nitary of  the  Republic,  and  he  made  every  effort  to 
persuade  her  of  his  continued  attachment.  But  in 


The  Countess  Cosel  51 

the  meantime  she  was  surrounded  by  spies,  for 
the  King  feared  her  vengeance,  even  before  he  had 
deserved  it. 

The  love  of  Augustus  II.  had  changed  to  pure 
gallantry,  its  chill  could  be  felt.  Princess  Teschen 
still  occupied  the  first  place  at  court,  after  the  Queen  ; 
but  in  the  King's  heart  she  was  placed  on  the  same 
level  as  Her  Majesty.  The  King  was  indifferent  to 
her. 

Her  dreams  of  eternal  love  had  passed  like  spring 
clouds — nothing  now  remained  to  her  but  offended 
pride. 

When  Princess  Lubomirska  left  her  family,  visions 
of  the  crown  had  floated  before  her  eyes — but  these 
visions  had  disappeared,  and  there  remained  only  the 
shame  of  unrealized  calculation  ;  the  disgraceful  situa- 
tion of  a  woman  without  husband  or  home  ;  a  woman 
paid  for  momentary  transports  of  love  with  titles, 
estates,  and  gold.  The  hour  of  her  triumph  had  been 
short  and  fleeting,  but  the  shame  would  endure  for 
ever. 

The  Princess  Lubomirska  could  not  thus  return  to 
Poland. 

Poor  woman,  she  was  afraid  of  being  abandoned,  and 
hurled  headlong  from  that  height  on  which  she  now 
stood  hesitating,  and  wondering  what  course  she  should 
pursue.  She  was  very  weary,  and  she  was  right  in 
calling  herself  unhappy,  even  before  she  was  so  in 
reality. 

The  palace  in  Pirna  Street  was,  as  usual,  full  of 
courtiers,  beautiful  ladies,  and  gallant  cavaliers.  The 
King  especially  favoured  the  latter,  for  he  hoped  that 


52  The  Countess  Cosel 

one  among  them  might  take  off  his  hands  that  heart 
which  now  oppressed  him  by  its  too  lachrymose 
affection. 

The  Princess's  tears  made  Augustus  the  Strong  very 
impatient,  he  never  wept  himself,  and  greatly  disliked 
to  see  her  weep.  Moreover,  it  annoyed  him  that 
where  he  came  seeking  for  distraction,  he  met  with 
nothing  but  endless  reproaches. 

The  Princess  also  employed  her  spies.  She  knew 
the  King's  every  movement,  and  every  word  he  uttered 
was  reported  to  her.  She  spied  on  him  jealously.  She 
knew  all  the  details  of  that  orgie  at  which  Hoym  had 
first  been  made  drunk,  and  then  compelled  to  send  to 
Laubegast  for  his  beautiful  wife.  And  now,  uneasy 
and  feverish,  she  was  wondering  whether  she  should 
accept  the  challenge,  and  go  to  the  Queen's  ball,  or 
whether  she  should  contemptuously  ignore  the  gauntlet 
that  had  been  thrown  to  her. 

Towards  eleven  o'clock  in  the  morning  she  was  in- 
formed that  the  Countess  Hoym  had  arrived.  No  one 
had  seen  her  as  yet  ;  none  knew  her ;  none  could  de- 
scribe her.  All  agreed,  however,  that  she  was  beauti- 
ful, that  she  was  born  in  1680,  and  that  she  was  there- 
fore the  same  age  as  Princess  Lubomirska ;  but  none 
could  predict  the  amount  of  danger  to  be  expected  from 
her  beauty. 

All  kinds  of  stories  were  repeated.  Pitiless  Kyan 
was  reported  to  have  said,  "It  is  no  matter  whether 
she  is  beautiful ;  it  will  be  sufficient  if  she  is  unlike 
the  Princess." 

And  Princess  Teschen  was  only  too  well  aware  that 
the  Countess's  beauty  would  not  be  the  principal 


The  Countess  Cosel  53 

consideration  with  the  King  ;  it  would  be  the  pleasure 
of  a  new  sensation. 

She  had  fewer  visitors  than   usual  this  morning,  for 

o' 

all  were  busy  rushing  hither  and  thither  through  the 
city,  carrying  and  gathering  the  news. 

Some  said  that  the  King,  according  to  his  usual 
custom  when  he  cared  about  the  splendour  of  a  ball, 
was  carefully  preparing  the  programme  himself,  and  that 
he  was  already  very  impatient  for  the  result  of  the  wager 
between  Fiirstenberg  and  Hoym.  Others  said  that 
Fraulein  Hulchen  and  Countess  Reuss  were  intriguing 
together,  their  object  being  to  entangle  Countess  Hoym 
in  their  nets,  and  thus  assure  themselves  of  her  favour. 

Countess  Vitzthum  assured  every  one  that  her  sister- 
in-law's  beauty  would  eclipse  that  of  all  the  court 
beauties. 

The  Princess  sent  out  for  tidings,  received  the 
reports  of  those  who  still  remained  faithful  to  her, 
wept,  and  gave  herself  up  to  despair.  Thrice  had  she 
succeeded  in  retaining  her  hold  over  the  King  when 
he  had  wished  to  break  with  her,  but  now  it  seemed 
as  though  her  last  hour  had  really  come.  She  wrung 
her  hands — suddenly  a  strange  thought  took  possession 
of  her  mind — she  glanced  at  the  clock.  Hoym's  house 
was  not  far  distant.  She  whispered  something  to  her 
attendant,  then,  muffling  her  face  in  a  thick  veil,  she 
quietly  descended  the  stairs,  and  entered  the  vestibule. 
A  litter  was  in  readiness,  she  entered  it,  then,  instead 
of  carrying  her  through  the  street,  the  two  bearers,  to 
whom  the  servant  had  given  whispered  instructions, 
went  along  in  the  rear  of  the  gardens.  A  door  in 
Hoym's  garden  was  opened  by  some  one,  the  Princess 


54  The  Countess  Cosel 

alighted  from  her  litter,  and,  after  a  hasty  glance 
around  her,  hurried  up  the  stairs,  and  entered  the 
Count's  house.  A  young  man  in  the  antechamber 
opened  the  door  to  her,  Lubomirska  hastened  down  a 
dark  corridor,  and  rapped  at  a  door  that  had  been 
pointed  out  to  her. 

She  had  to  wait  some  time  before  it  was  opened,  and 
even  then  it  seemed  as  though  the  servant  who  opened 
only  wished  to  see  who  was  outside,  for  she  would  not 
have  allowed  the  Princess  to  enter,  had  not  that  lady 
placed  a  few  ducats  in  her  hand.  Then  Princess 
Teschen  pushed  open  the  door,  and  entered. 

Anna  Hoym  was  walking  across  the  room,  at  the 
moment  the  veiled  lady  appeared  on  the  threshold. 
Surprised  at  the  sight  of  an  unexpected  visitor,  she 
drew  back  with  an  angry  frown. 

Pulling  off  her  veil,  Lubomirska  gazed  inquisitively 
at  the  Countess ;  then  her  lips  trembled,  she  grew 
deadly  pale,  staggered  and  fainted. 

Anna  and  the  servant  hastened  to  her  assistance,  and 
between  them  they  raised  the  unconscious  lady. 

Her  swoon,  however,  did  not  last  long.  Suddenly 
she  sprang  up  like  a  madwoman,  and  gazed  on  her 
rival  with  dilated  eyes ;  then  she  silently  made  a  sign 
that  she  desired  the  servant  to  leave  the  room. 

The  two  ladies  were  accordingly  left  alone. 

This  strange  occurrence  filled  Countess  Hoym  with 
uneasiness.  After  long  years  spent  in  the  quiet  of  the 
country,  the  new  and  feverish  life  that  had  now  begun 
for  her  startled  and  surprised  her. 

Lubomirska  extended  her  white,  cold,  trembling 
hand  towards  the  Countess. 


The  Countess  Cosel  55 

"  Forgive  me,"  she  said,  in  feeble  tones,  "  I  wanted 
to  see  and  warn  you.  The  voice  of  duty  compelled 
me  to  come  hither." 

Anna  remained  silent,  gazing  curiously  at  her  extra- 
ordinary visitor. 

"  Yes,  look  at  me  !  "  continued  the  Princess.  "•  You 
are  beginning  the  life  which  for  me  is  ended.  Once 
I  was  as  you  are,  innocent,  happy,  quiet,  and  re- 
spected, living  at  peace  with  my  conscience  and  my 
God.  I  had  my  husband's  princely  title,  and,. better 
than  all,  I  had  an  unsullied  name.  Then  there  came 
a  crowned  monarch,  and  he  took  all  this  from  me  with 
his  smile.  His  sceptre  and  crown  he  laid  at  my  feet  ; 
he  gave  me  his  heart.  I  followed  him.  Look  at  me. 
To-day  I  have  nothing.  The  name  I  have  is  borrowed, 
my  heart  is  broken,  my  happiness  is  gone  for  ever ; 
instead,  the  mark  of  shame  is  on  my  forehead  ;  my  soul 
is  full  of  bitterness,  the  future  is  dark  and  threatening, 
and  I  am  tormented  with  cares  for  my  child.  I  have 
no  one  in  this  world  to  whom  I  can  turn.  My  relations 
would  disown  me  ;  those  who  yesterday  crawled  at  my 
feet,  will  forget  me  to-morrow.  He  !  He !  will  push 
me  aside  like  a  stranger.' 

Anna  blushed. 

"  Madam  !"  she  exclaimed.  "  Why  do  you  foresee 
a  danger  for  me  that  I  cannot  see  myself?  I  do  not 
understand  your  words.  Who  are  you  ? " 

"  Yesterday,  I  was  almost  a  Queen,  but  I  know  not 
what  I  am  to-day,"  replied  the  Princess. 

"  But  I  do  not  wish  for  any  crown,"  said  Anna, 
"  there  is  not  one  that  does  not  burn  the  forehead. 
Why  do  you  apply  these  threats  to  me  ?  " 


56  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Warnings,  not  threats,"  interrupted  Lubomirska. 
"  Forgive  me,  a  crown  is  approaching  your  brow,  the 
people  have  given  it  you  in  advance.  I  desire  to 
show  you  its  thorns." 

"You  are  mistaken,"  replied  the  Countess  calmly. 
"  I  shall  not  stretch  forth  my  hands  for  any  crown.  I 
am  too  proud.  Be  calm." 

Teschen  sank  on  the  sofa,  her  head  drooped,  and 
she  began  to  weep.  Her  heart-breaking  sobs  aroused 
Countess  Hoym's  pity,  and  she  approached  her 
sympathetically. 

"  Everything  that  has  happened  to  me  to-day  is  so 
mysterious,"  said  she.  "  Who  are  you  ?  " 

(<  Teschen,"  murmured  the  Princess  softly,  raising 
her  eyes  as  she  spoke.  "  You  have  heard  of  me,  and 
you  can  guess  why  they  have  brought  you  here.  A 
fresh  face  is  necessary  for  their  weary  lord.'1 

Anna  uttered  an  indignant  cry. 

"  Villains  !  "  exclaimed  she.  "  Then  they  would 
traffic  with  us,  as  though  we  were  slaves — and 
we— 

"  We  are  their  victims." 

"  No  !  I  will  never  be  their  victim,"  interrupted  the 
Countess  ;  "  I  am  so  proud  that  I  would  endure  any 
misery,  rather  than  suffer  such  humiliation." 

Teschen  looked  at  her,  and  sighed. 

"  If  it  is  not  you,  it  will  be  another,"  she  replied. 
"  My  hour  has  come.  But  if  you  are  strong  enough,  I 
beseech  you,  avenge  us  all.  Spurn  him.  Show  him 
the  contempt  you  feel  for  him.  His  actions  cry  to 
God  for  vengeance." 

She  replaced    her   veil,   shook  hands  silently,  then 


The  Countess  Cosel  57 

with  the  hasty  exclamation,  "  You  are  warned,  defend 
yourself!''  she  hurried  from  the  room,  leaving  the 
Countess  speechless. 

Before  she  had  recovered  herself,  the  Princess  had 
disappeared. 

The  same  man  who  admitted  her  was  waiting  on  the 
stairs.  She  re-entered  her  litter,  and,  whilst  drawing 
the  curtains,  noticed  a  young  officer  with  a  pale  face 
looking  anxiously  into  her  eyes. 

The  young  man's  features  were  noble,  aristocratic, 
and  expressive  of  courage  and  energy,  but  at  that 
moment  they  were  distorted  by  grief  and  indignation. 
He  seemed  unable  to  believe  his  eyes.  He  approached 
the  litter. 

"Princess  Ursula!"  said  he,  in  a  voice  broken  by 
emotion,  "  can  I  believe  my  eyes  ?  I  beseech  you, 
tell  me  the  whole  truth,  then  I  will  mount  my  steed, 
ride  away,  and  never  return.  Princess!  I  am  mad 
\\ith  love,  while  you— 

"  It  is  quite  true  that  you  are  mad,"  said  the 
Princess  brusquely,  "  and  you  are  blind  as  well,  or  you 
would  see  that  I  am  coming  from  Hoym's  house,  and 
with  him  I  could  not  possibly  be  in  love." 

She  grasped  his  hand. 

"Come  with  me,  I  will  not  release  you  until  I  have 
explained  everything.  I  do  not  wish  you  to  accuse 
me  unjustly — that  would  be  too  much  !  I  could  not 
survive  that !  " 

The  Princess,  her  beautiful  eyes  full  of  tears,  looked 
so  eloquently  at  the  young  man,  as  she  uttered  these 
words,  that  all  traces  of  sorrow  disappeared  from  his 
face. 


58  The  Countess  Cosel 

Obedient  to  her  commands,  he  followed  the  litter  ; 
when  it  stopped,  he  helped  her  to  alight,  and  together 
they  entered  the  palace.  Tired  and  broken  in  spirit, 
the  Princess  sank  on  the  sofa,  and  motioned  to  the 
young  man  to  seat  himself  by  her  side. 

"  Prince,  you  behold  me  angry  and  indignant.  I 
have  just  returned  from  visiting  her  whom  my  horrible 
enemies  have  brought  here,  that  the  King  may  have 
the  distraction  of  a  new  face  ;  whom  they  have  brought 
here  to  drive  me  away,  and  to  overthrow  my  influence 
with  the  King.  Have  you  heard  about  Countess 
Hoym  ?  " 

"  No,"  replied  the  young  man,  who  was  Prince 
Ludwig  von  Wiirtemberg.  "  I  have  only  heard  them 
laughing  at  poor  Hoym,  whom  they  made  drunk,  so 
that  they  might  compel  him  to  show  his  wife." 

"  Yes,"  exclaimed  the  Princess  with  animation, 
"  they  well  knew  how  to  arouse  Augustus's  curiosity. 
But  I  have  seen  her ;  she  is  beautiful,  and  she  is 
dangerous." 

"  So  much  the  better  !  "  cried  the  Prince,  springing 
from  his  seat.  "  Then  you  will  be  free  !  " 

Teschen  blushed,  and  looked  inquiringly  at  the 
young  man — there  was  a  moment's  silence,  then  she 
stretched  out  her  hands  towards  him.  He  seized 
them,  kissed  them  with  fervour,  and  was  still  holding 
them,  when  a  little  woman,  who  bore  some  likeness 
to  the  Princess,  rushed  into  the  room,  laughing 
maliciously. 

It  was  difficult  to  guess  how  old  she  was,  for  she 
had  one  of  those  faces  which,  never  being  fresh,  do 
not  grow  old  for  a  long  time.  Her  sharp,  grey, 


The  Countess  Cosel  59 

malicious  eyes  were  full  of  animation,  her  lips  wore  an 
ironical  smile,  whilst  her  features  bespoke  her  a 
feverish  gossip  and  an  unbearable  intriguante.  She 
was  dressed  with  the  greatest  care  ;  had  a  dainty 
figure,  and  small  feet.  She  clapped  her  hands  in 
delight  when  Prince  von  Wiirtemberg  withdrew  his  lips 
from  the  Princess's  hand. 

"  Bravo!  Bravissimo  !  "  she  screeched.  "  I  see  that 
my  sister  has  secured  military  protection  for  her 
retreat ;  for  it  seems  to  me  that  the  moment  has 
arrived  when  we  shall  have  to  retreat  from  the  King's 
heart  and  court." 

The  speaker  was  the  Princess's  own  sister,  and 
married  to  the  Baron  von  Glassenapp. 

"  My  dear  sister,  I  have  not  seen  you  for  a  long 
time,"  prattled  on  the  little  lady,  "  but  at  the  moment 
of  peril,  I  always  appear.  Teschen,  do  you  know  that 
Hoym's  wife  has  arrived  ?  I  saw  her  when  she  was  at 
Dresden  during  the  King's  absence,  and  I  then  fore- 
told that,  like  the  beautiful  Helen  of  Troy,  she  would 
bring  misfortune  to  some  one.  She  is  beautiful  as  an 
angel,  and  dark,  which  for  a  blonde  like  Teschen,  is 
always  dangerous.  She  is  animated,  witty,  malicious, 
and  proud  as  a  Queen.  Your  power  is  ended." 

She  laughed. 

"  Well,  you  still  have  a  chance  of  princely  titles," 
she  continued,  not  allowing  any  one  an  opportunity  to 
put  in  a  word.  "  I  was  only  able  to  catch  a  poor 
Pomeranian  Baron — but  you  got  Lubomirska,  you 
have  Teschen,  and  for  provision  you  are  trying  to  get 
Von  Wurtemberg.'' 

The  Prince   stood    blushing  and    angry.     Teschen 


6o  The  Countess  Cosel 

lowered    her   eyes,    and   murmured    through   her    set 
teeth, — 

"  I  could  have  a  fourth,  if  I  wished." 

"  I  will  tell  you  his  name,  if  you  like,"  interrupted 
the  Baroness,  and,  running  up  to  her  sister,  she  put  her 
mouth  to  her  ear,  saying, — 

"  The  Prince  Alexander  Sobieski,  is  it  not  ?  But 
he  will  not  marry,  while  Ludvvig  will.  Try  and  hold 
him." 

The  Princess  turned  from  her  sister  in  disgust,  and 
the  Baroness  looked  in  the  mirrors,  flitted  about  the 
room,  all  the  while  keeping  an  eye  on  the  couple,  at 
whom  she  laughed  dreadfully. 

"  If  you  are  clever,  Teschen,  you  may  still  come  out 
of  this  crisis  triumphant.  Hoym's  wife  is  a  simpleton  ; 
she  will  disgust  the  King  ;  she  will  attract  him  at  first 
by  her  beauty,  but  she  will  repulse  him  with  her  pride  ; 
after  her,  Teschen  will  appear  dear  and  sweet.  Well, 
one  must  forgive  the  King's  fancy.  Such  men  have 
great  sorrows,  and  great  privileges.  Only  I  am 
sorry,"  she  continued,  "  that  every  one  is  tearing  you 
to  pieces  already.  The  Countesses  Reuss  and  Hulchen 
are  offering  sacrifices  to  the  new  goddess,  while 
Fiirstenberg  and  even  brother-in-law  Vitzthum  are 
ready  to  supplant  Hoym.  Poor  Hoym,  when  his 
wife  leaves  him,  I  would  marry  him,  if  it  were  not 
for  my  duties.  But  the  old  libertine  never  cared 
for  me." 

Here  Prince  Ludwig  rose  to  take  his  leave,  and  the 
way  in  which  Princess  Ursula  shook  hands  with  him 
did  not  escape  the  notice  of  the  Baroness,  who  bowed 
to  him  distantly. 


The  Countess  Cosel  61 

There  was  silence  for  a  few  moments  after  the  sisters 
were  left  alone. 

"You  must  not  take  it  so  tragically,"  began  the 
Baroness,  "  any  one  could  have  foreseen  that  this  would 
happen  sooner  or  later.  The  King  is  tired  of  a 
blonde,  you  have  a  principality,  you  have  estates  in 
Hoyerswerd  ;  you  have  millions,  diamonds,  a  palace  ; 
you  are  still  young,  still  beautiful ;  and  there  is  Prince 
Ludwig,  who  is  ready  to  marry  you.  I  tell  you  frankly, 
I  would  gladly  exchange  my  lot  for  yours,  and  I  would 
give  you  Schulemberg  in  addition." 

"  But  I  loved  him,"  interrupted  the  Princess,  weep- 
ing bitterly. 

"  But  that  is  all  over,"  rejoined  the  Baroness,  "  I 
know  that  you  were  both  in  love  with  each  other,  for 
a  whole  year  at  the  least,  during  which  time  the  King 
betrayed  you  secretly,  at  least,  ten  times,  and  you 
repaid  him  in  the  same  coin." 

"  Sister  !  "  exclaimed  the  Princess  indignantly. 

"  Well,  then,  you  did  not.  But  during  that  time 
you  were  able  to  obtain  for  yourself  the  love  of  the 
Prince  von  Wiirtemberg.  I  am  called  malicious  and 
wicked,  but  I  should  not  have  been  able  to  do  it.  1 
only  found  Schulemberg  after  I  had  been  bitten  by 
Glassenapp." 

She  laughed  a  little,  and  then  continued, — 

"  Listen,  Kings  have  a  custom,  when  taking  leave 
of  their  favourites,  to  ask  for  the  return  of  the  diamonds 
they  have  given.  I  warn  you,  therefore,  to  put  yours 
in  a  safe  place." 

She  looked  at  her  sister,  who  apparently  did  not 
hear  what  she  was  saying. 


62  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Are  you  going  to  the  ball  ?  "  she  inquired. 

"  The  ball  ?  "  repeated  the  Princess,  thoughtfully. 
"  Yes  ;  I  must  go  to  the  ball.  I  shall  go  dressed  in 
mourning,  and  without  any  jewels  ;  but  tell  me,  will  a 
black  robe  be  becoming  to  me  ?  " 

The  Baroness  laughed. 

"  Undoubtedly  !  "  she  replied.  "  Mourning  is 
becoming  to  every  one.  But  if  you  think  that  by 
doing  this  you  will  soften  the  hearts  of  Augustus  and 
his  courtiers,  you  are  mistaken  ;  they  will  all  laugh  at 
you  ;  they  do  not  like  tragedies." 

"  What  will  be,  will  be  !  "  replied  the  Princess.  "  I 
shall  go  in  mourning.  I  will  appear  before  him  like  a 
silent  ghost." 

"And  as  Countess  Hoym  will  be  merry  and  fresh, 
you  will  also  disappear  like  a  ghost.  Believe  me,  the 
past  can  never  be  recalled." 

She  looked  at  the  clock. 

"  It  is  late  already !  I  shall  see  you  again  at  the 
ball — I  shall  be  there,  but  I  shall  be  in  the  back- 
ground, like  a  spectator  who  applauds  the  actors. 
Good-bye  ! " 


CHAPTER  V. 


MOST  of  the  guests  had  arrived.  The  magnificence 
of  the  dresses  with  which  the  ball-room  was  crowded, 
hid  from  view  the  calamities  caused  by  the  war  that 
had  lately  visited  Saxony.  The  King's  dress  was 
covered  with  diamonds,  large  diamonds  formed  the 
buttons  of  his  tunic,  whilst  a  profusion  of  the  same 
precious  stones  glittered  on  the  hilt  of  his  sword  and 
the  buckles  of  his  shoes.  His  majestic  figure  looked 
quite  youthful,  and  the  expression  of  his  features  was 
more  suited  to  a  victor  than  to  one  who  had  been 
obliged  to  fight  for  his  throne  against  a  most  deter- 
mined adversary. 

The  dresses  of  the  ladies  also  glittered  with  precious 
stones,  although  many  of  the  court  beauties  had  no 
need  of  these  adornments.  The  Queen  alone  was 
modestly  dressed ;  Augustus  gallantly  hastened 
forward  to  meet  her  ;  the  musicians  played  a  fanfare. 
The  principal  actresses,  however,  had  not  yet  arrived. 

The  King  had  already  begun  to  frown  in  true 
Olympic  fashion,  and  was  looking  at  Fiirstenberg  in  a 
\vay  that  that  nobleman  understood  perfectly,  when, 
despite  the  respect  due  to  the  presence  of  the  sovereign, 
murmurs  arose  at  the  entrance  to  the  ball-room.  The 


64  The  Countess  Cosel 

eyes  of  all  the  guests  were  eagerly  turned  towards  the 
doorway. 

"  They  come  !  "  whispered  Fiirstenberg. 

He  was  right;  and  the  next  moment,  Hoym,  his 
face  pale  and  sad,  entered  the  room,  accompanied  by 
his  wife. 

Perhaps  never  before  had  there  been  seen  beauty  so 
dazzling,  even  at  that  court  so  famed  for  beautiful 
women. 

Countess  Hoym  walked  amongst  the  ladies  with  the 
dignity  of  a  queen  ;  she  was  fearless,  calm,  dignified, 
and  so  lovely,  that  there  was  a  general  murmur  of 
admiration.  The  King  looked  at  her  intently,  but 
failed  to  catch  her  eyes.  As  she  was  to  be  presented 
to  the  Queen,  she  allowed  herself  to  be  conducted  to 
Her  Majesty,  but  she  did  not  appear  to  be  dazzled  by 
the  splendour  of  the  court,  or  by  the  Apollo-like 
beauty  of  the  King,  who,  it  was  evident,  had  placed 
himself  so  as  to  appear  before  her  to  the  best  advan- 
tage. A  quiver  of  impatience  passed  over  his  features. 

Hoym  led  his  wife  forward,  looking  like  a  man  con- 
demned to  death.  His  enemies  were  delighted  at  the 
sight  of  his  agony,  which  he  made  no  attempt  to 
conceal.  The  Queen  looked  kindly  on  the  Countess, 
and  smiled  on  her  graciously,  but  she  was  full  of  pity 
for  the  fate  that  awaited  that  beautiful  woman.  She 
even  sighed  slightly. 

As  soon  as  the  formalities  of  the  presentation  were 
concluded,  the  musicians  played  a  polonaise,  and  the 
King  opened  the  ball  with  the  Queen. 

Princess  Teschen  had  not  yet  arrived.  All  the 
other  ladies  were  present,  however,  even  Fraulein 


The  Countess  Cosel  65 

Hulchen,  who,  although  ill,  had  overcome  her  suffer- 
ings in  order  to  satisfy  her  curiosity. 

The  first  dance  was  just  ended,  when  the  sounds  of 
renewed  murmuring  announced  that  something  un- 
usual had  occurred.  All  the  guests,  and  even  the 
King,  looked  in  the  direction  whence  the  sound  pro- 
ceeded— there  on  the  threshold,  as  though  hesitating 
whether  or  no  she  should  enter,  stood  Princess 
Teschen.  She  was  clad  in  deep  mourning.  On  seeing 
who  it  was,  Augustus  went  forward  to  meet  her,  look- 
ing very  much  annoyed. 

'.'  Whom  have  you  lost,"  he  inquired  ironically, 
"  that  you  appear  here  in  a  dress  so  little  suited  to  a 
ball  ?  " 

"  I  have  lost  your  Majesty,"  murmured  Teschen 
softly. 

The  inquisitive  eyes  that  had  been  regarding  the 
Princess  were  now  turned  towards  Countess  Hoym, 
and  even  the  ladies  acknowledged  that  the  latter  was 
by  far  the  more  beautiful. 

Augustus  was  intoxicated  at  the  sight  of  her  beauty, 
and  the  moment  Countess  Vitzthum  had  separated  her 
from  her  husband,  he  approached  Hoym,  and  clapping 
him  on  the  shoulder,  said  confidentially,— 

"  My  dear  Count,  you  have  won  that  thousand 
ducats  off  Fiirstenberg.  I  congratulate  you  on  your 
good  fortune,  and  also  on  your  wife's  beauty.  There 
is  no  doubt  that  she  is  the  most  beautiful  lady  at  our 
court.  Oh,  Hoym,  what  a  happy  man  you  must  be !  " 

But  seeing  Hoym,  as  he  stood  with  drooping  head, 
listening  to  the  King's  congratulations,  no  one  would 
have  supposed  him  to  be  happy.  On  the  contrary,  he 

F 


66  The  Countess  Cosel 

looked  like  one  humiliated  and  crushed  ;  like  a  man 
repenting  his  evil  deeds  ;  like  one  who,  did  he  but 
dare,  would  groan  aloud  in  his  anguish.  Ftirstenberg 
bowed,  looking  ironically  at  the  King. 

"  I  see,  your  Majesty,"  said  he  in  a  whisper,  "  that 
I  must  pay  the  costs  of  the  King's  decision,  and  that 
I  must  also  pay  the  piper." 

Augustus  turned  towards  him,  and,  extending  his 
hand  to  be  kissed,  said, — 

"  Do  not  complain,  Ftirstenberg  ;  pay  the  thousand 
ducats,  and  take  ten  thousand  from  my  treasury  as  a 
reward  for  the  opportunity  you  have  given  me  of 
beholding  such  a  masterpiece  of  beauty." 

Meanwhile,  Princess  Teschen  sat  alone — every  one 
had  deserted  her.  Having  observed  this,  Augustus, 
following  his  usual  custom  of  sweetening,  as  far  as 
possible,  his  subjects'  downfall,  went  over  to  her. 
Those  unacquainted  with  the  King's  mode  of  pro- 
cedure were  much  surprised  at  seeing  him  walk  in  that 
direction.  But  Countess  Reuss  and  Fraulein  Hulchen, 
who  observed  his  movements,  were  well  aware  of  its 
meaning. 

"  Teschen  is  overthrown  !  "  said  the  Countess, 
addressing  her  friend.  "  The  King  has  gone  over  to 
her !  " 

The    old    courtiers   also,    who    had    seen  the  King- 

o 

embracing  Chancellor  Beichling  the  day  before  he 
was  sent  to  Konigstein,  knew  how  to  interpret 
His  Majesty's  tenderness  towards  the  Princess 
Teschen. 

"  Do  you  know,"  said  the  King,  seating  himself  by 
her  side,  "that  looking  at  you  in  that  black  dress,  you 


The  Countess  Cosel  67 

are  so  beautiful  that  you  remind  me  of  that  tourna- 
ment at  Warsaw,  when  you  fainted  through  anxiety 
for  my  safety? " 

"  But  Countess  Hoym  is  more  beautiful  than  I  am, 
than  the  tournament,  or  the  remembrance  of  my 
fainting,"  replied  the  Princess  sarcastically. 

"  Countess  Hoym  may  be  beautiful,  even  most 
beautiful,"  said  Augustus,  "but  there  are  things  more 
beautiful  than  beauty  itself — and  one  is  a  tender  and 
loving  heart.  Dear  Princess,  do  not  make  such  a 
spectacle  of  yourself;  return  home,  put  on  your  blue 
dress,  that  is  so  becoming  to  you,  and  wait  for  me  for 
supper." 

A  deep  blush  overspread  the  pale  face  of  the 
Princess  Ursula. . 

"  My  King  !  my  Lord  ! ''  she  exclaimed,  forgetful 
of  all  that  had  gone  before.  "  Is  this  true?  Is  it 
possible  that  Augustus  is  still  mine  ?  " 

"  Pray  do  not  doubt  me,"  replied  the  King  gravely. 
"  Why  should  I  lie  ?  " 

It  was  true.  At  that  moment  the  King  did  not  lie  ; 
Countess  Hoym's  beauty  had  made  a  great  impression 
on  him,  but  at  the  same  time  it  had  filled  him  with  a 
sort  of  fear.  The  energy  of  her  character  betrayed 
itself  in  her  every  movement  and  glance,  and  he  felt 
that  he  should  be  obliged  to  lay  half  of  his  power  at 
her  feet.  Anna's  face  said,  "  I  must  rule  ;  "  the  face  of 
Ursula  said,  "  I  love  you,  and  I  am  dying  for  your 
love !  "  Countess  Hoym  even  appeared  to  him  too 
sad  and  serious.  That,  therefore,  was  the  reason  he 
went  over  to  console  the  Princess  ;  he  had  no  wish  to 
lose  her,  and  place  his  neck  beneath  the  yoke  of  a 


68  The  Countess  Cosel 

woman  who  seemed  not  in  the  least  anxious  to  conquer 
him. 

Countess  Hoym  was  very  tastefully  dressed  ;  she 
wore  no  jewels,  but  her  coiffure  and  the  colour  and 
cut  of  her  dress  lent  an  added  charm  to  her  beauty. 
The  portraits  of  her  taken  at  that  time,  represent  her 
as  having  a  face  of  an  exquisite  oval,  a  small  nose, 
lovely  lips,  and  very  expressive,  large  black  eyes, 
whilst  her  features  were  very  delicate,  and  her  long 
black  hair  very  abundant.  Her  hands,  bust,  and 
waist  were  of  a  corresponding  beauty  ;  and  her  fair 
face  blushed  and  paled  with  every  succeeding  emotion. 

Although  exposed  to  the  gaze  of  several  hundred 
persons,  Anna  Hoym  was  not  in  the  least  confused  ; 
at  first  she  was  silent  and  dignified,  but  she  speedily 
became  accustomed  to  the  dazzling  splendour,  which 
appeared  to  her  to  be  an  ordinary  thing  here,  for 
although  the  court  in  which  she  had  passed  her  young 
days  was  not  so  splendid  as  that  of  Dresden,  the 
forms,  she  found,  were  the  same. 

Princess  Teschen  at  once  prepared  to  obey  the 
King's  command,  and  having  cast  on  him  one  languish- 
ing glance,  she  left  the  ball-room  almost  triumphant. 
A  few  moments  later  Augustus  stood  beside  Countess 
Hoym's  chair.  He  gazed  at  her  in  silence,  and,  having 
noticed  his  approach,  Anna  rose.  The  King  requested 
her  to  be  seated,  and  she  obeyed,  but  without  any 
exaggerated  respect. 

At  that  time  it  was  the  custom  that  when  the  King 
desired  to  talk  with  any  one,  those  standing  near 
immediately  retreated.  This  custom  was  observed  in 
the  present  instance. 


The  Countess  Cosel  69 

"  Countess,  you  are  the  most  beautiful  lady  at  my 
court,"  said  the  King  gallantly,  bending  towards  her 
as  he  spoke.  "  I  am  delighted  with  the  new  and 
splendid  star  that  has  now  risen  on  my  horizon." 

Anna  raised  her  head  proudly. 

"  Your  Majesty !"  replied  she,  "  at  night,  any  small 
light  looks  like  a  star,  but  with  the  daylight  it  expires. 
I  know  how  to  appreciate  your  Majesty's  favour,  and 
it  is  to  this  favour  that  I  attribute  these  flattening 
words." 

"  I  only  repeat  what  I  hear,"  said  Augustus. 

"  People  who  see  me  for  the  first  time,"  rejoined 
Anna,  laughing,  "usually  see  badly.  A  new  object 
amuses  ;  that  alone  is  truly  beautiful  which,  after  many 
years,  still  appears  beautiful." 

The  King  was  silent,  for  he  understood  that  the 
beautiful  lady  beside  him  was  referring  to  his  gallantry 
towards  Princess  Teschen.  But  after  a  few  moments, 
he  said; — 

"  You  are  too  modest." 

"Oh,  no !"  replied  Anna  with  animation.  "I  do 
not  attach  any  value  to  beauty." 

"  But  beauty  of  face  indicates  beauty  of  soul," 
rejoined  the  King. 

Anna  lowered  her  eyes.  The  King  did  not  leave 
her. 

"  After  the  long  solitude  imposed  on  you  by  your 
husband,"  continued  Augustus,  "  the  court  must  appear 
very  strange  to  you." 

"  Not  at  all,"  replied  Anna.  "  I  spent  my  youth  at  a 
court  which,  although  more  modest  than  your  Majesty's, 
gave  me  just  the  same  idea  as  to  what  all  courts  are." 


;o  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  And  what  are  they  ? "  inquired  the  King. 

"A  well-played  comedy,"  answered  the  Countess. 

"And  what  role  do  I  play  in  it  ?  " 

"Perhaps  that  of  a  manager,  who  is  deceived  and 
robbed  by  every  one.'' 

Augustus,  slightly  surprised,  inquired,— 

"  Do  you  find  everything  here  deceitful  ?  " 

"  How  could  it  be  otherwise  ?  "  asked  Anna.  "Kings 
never  hear  the  truth." 

"  It  may  be  so,"  said  Augustus,  "and  that  is  the 
reason  they  so  frequently  search  for  lips  from  which 
they  may  hear  it." 

"  But  perhaps,"  rejoined  Anna,  "  they  only  find  lips 
that  know  how  to  administer  poison  more  skilfully  than 
the  others." 

"Your  speech,"  said  the  King  politely,  "proves  to 
me  that  you  do  not  like  splendid  courts.  I  greatly 
regret  this,  for  I  thought  that  the  light  from  your  eyes 
would  brighten  our  gloomy  skies." 

"Your  Majesty,"  replied  Anna  with  animation,  "I 
should  sound  here  with  a  false  note.  I  know  not  how 
to  sing  like  the  others." 

To  turn  the  current  of  their  conversation,  Augustus 
now  began  to  make  humorous  remarks  about  the  ladies 
and  gentlemen  surrounding  them.  And  from  this 
Anna  discovered  that  he  knew  far  more  about  the 
characters,  inclinations,  and  even  of  the  secrets  in  the 
lives  of  his  courtiers,  than  she  would  have  expected. 

"You  see,"  added  Augustus,  "that  this  comedy 
holds  no  secrets  for  me  ;  and  what  renders  it  very 
amusing  is  that  these  people  imagine  that  they  deceive 
and  blind  me." 


The  Countess  Cosel  71 

"  Thus  the  gods  look  on  the  earth,"  concluded  the 
Countess. 

The  King  was  much  pleased  at  being  called  a  god. 
As  she  spoke  those  words,  her  eyes,  for  the  first  time, 
met  those  of  the  King,  which  were  fixed  on  her  full  of 
enthusiasm  and  admiration.  In  Anna's  eyes  there  was 
only  an  expression  of  cold  curiosity,  not  unmixed 
with  fear. 

After  this,  the  King  left  her  slowly.  His  courtiers 
all  tried  to  divine  his  thoughts.  Fiirstenberg  was  the 
first  to  encounter  him. 

"  Your  Majesty,"  said  he,  "  may  I  dare  to  ask  if  the 
most  beautiful  is  also — " 

"  The  most  witty,"  said  the  King,  finishing  his  sen- 
tence for  him.  "We  must  tell  Hoym  that  he  must 
not  on  any  account  venture  to  take  her  from  Dresden. 
She  is  very  interesting  indeed — a  little  bit  cold,  but 
that  will  pass  with  time." 

Hoym,  who  had  been  watching  from  a  distance,  was 
unable  to  guess  his  wife's  thoughts  ;  but  the  moment 
Anna  was  left  alone  Countess  Reuss,  Fraulein  Hulchen, 
and  Countess  Vitzthum  hastened  forward  and  sur- 
rounded her. 

The  King  noticed  it,  and  shrugged  his  shoulders. 

"  They  already  bow  before  the  rising  sun,"  whispered 
he  to  Fiirstenberg.  "  But  I  very  much  fear  that  they 
will  be  disappointed." 

Fiirstenberg  looked  surprised. 

"  You  also  are  mistaken,"  said  Augustus,  bending 
down  and  speaking  in  his  ear.  "  Hoym's  wife  is 
beautiful,  I  have  examined  her  carefully  :  she  is  an 
animated  Greek  statue,  but  she  is  too  energetic,  too 


73  The  Countess  Cosel 

intelligent  ;  and  besides,  she  would  wish  to  rule.  A  few 
days'pleasure  with  her  is  all  that  I  desire.  Her  beauty 
attracts  me,  but  her  character  repels  me." 

Fiirstenberg  now  looked  very  much  astonished,  and 
the  King  went  away. 

During  all  this  time,  no  one  had  noticed  the  pale 
face  of  a  young  man,  whose  head  towered  above  all  the. 
others  in  the  crowd  around  the  door.  His  glance 
rested  continually  on  Anna,  and  when  the  King 
approached  her,  his  eyes  gleamed  with  anger.  At  first 
Countess  Hoym  did  not  observe  him,  but  when  the 
King  had  left  her,  and  she  had  more  leisure  to  look 
around  her,  she  perceived  and  recognized  Zaklika. 

As  her  eyes  rested  on  his  pale  face,  she  grew  a 
trifle  confused.  Then,  uncertain  whether  she  was  mis- 
taken or  not,  she  looked  again,  and  this  time  she  met 
his  eyes  gazing  towards  her.  Now  there  was  no 
longer  room  for  doubt :  her  silent  admirer  from 
Laubegast  stood  before  her.  In  the  expression  of  his 
face,  she  seemed  to  read  pity,  sorrow,  and  uneasiness. 

His  looks  made  her  uneasy,  and  every  moment  she 
glanced  in  his  direction,  hoping  he  might  have  dis- 
appeared. But  no,  he  was  still  there,  and  with  the 
same  expression  on  his  features.  Why  should  that 
poor,  unknown  vagabond  of  a  man  interest  her  more 
than  the  shining  majesty  of  the  King,  or  than  the 
courtiers,  who  were  all  bent  on  petting  her  ?  That 
was  a  question  she  was  quite  unable  to  answer.  She 
only  felt  that  a  mysterious  chain  of  some  strange 
destiny  united  her  to  that  stranger. 

Was  he  an  executioner  awaiting  the  hour  of  her 
torture,  or  was  he  a  victim  awaiting  the  execution  ? 


The  Countess  Cosel  73 

Anna  knew  not,  but  a  mysterious,  tormenting  voice 
seemed  to  whisper  to  her,  prophesying  the  unfolding  of 
some  future  destiny  between  herself  and  that  stranger. 
Every  time  she  met  his  glance,  she  shivered. 

She  laughed  at  her  foolish  fancies,  and  the  echo  in 
her  soul  replied  with  plaintive  moaning. 

It  was  in  such  a  mood  that  Hoym  found  her,  and  he 
looked  very  yellow  and  sour  as  he  offered  her  his  arm 
to  escort  her  home.  Fate  decreed  that  they  went 
towards  the  door  near  which  the  stranger  youth  was 
standing.  The  crowd  stepped  aside  to  let  them  pass. 
As  she  crossed  the  threshold,  the  Countess  glanced 
fearfully  around,  and  perceived  the  stranger  from 
Laubegast  leaning  against  the  wall.  Having  met  her 
glance,  the  youth  knelt  on  one  knee,  and  she  felt  him 
seize  the  hem  of  her  dress  and  press  it  to  his  lips. 
When,  however,  she  turned,  he  had  disappeared. 

There  before  her  stood  the  Countess  Reuss,  who 
invited  them  to  supper  so  cordially  that  the  Secretary 
could  not  refuse. 

Fiirstenberg  was  behind  her.  They  proceeded 
immediately  to  the  house  of  Countess  Reuss,  where,  in 
company  with  a  select  circle,  they  spent  about  an  hour. 
The  famous  Egeria  Hulchen  was  the  leader  there. 
She  was  an  old  maid,  but  the  King  gave  heed  to  her 
words,  and  frequently  asked  her  advice.  Around  her 
gathered  all  those  who  wished  to  rule,  or  to  keep  up 
their  influence.  The  King  laughed  at  this  clique, 
but,  by  its  unseen  springs,  it  ruled  both  him  and  the 
court. 

Countess  Reuss  was  one  of  the  principal  acting 
figures  at  the  court  of  Augustus  II.  In  her  house 


74  The  Countess  Cosel 

were  held  the  most  important  councils.  Here  plans 
were  laid  for  the  overthrow  or  rise  of  one  or  other  of 
the  lord's  favourites ;  here  also  was  predicted  the 
favours  that  awaited  the  various  ladies  ;  and  here,  too, 
they  foretold  with  great  exactness  the  moment  when 
the  King's  variable  affection  would  require  to  change 
the  object  of  its  devotion. 

Hoym  was  aware  that  Countess  Reuss,  foreseeing  a 
new  favourite,  was  trying  to  win  her  to  her  side  ;  he 
was  shocked  by  her  obsequiousness,  which  allowed  all 
to  guess  that  she  foresaw  in  Anna  a  substitute  for 
Princess  Teschen,  but  he  could  not  be  angry,  or  rather, 
he  could  not  show  that  he  was  angry.  Through 
Fraulein  Hulchen  and  her  relations,  Countess  Reuss 
had  a  very  great  influence  at  court,  and  it  would  be 
dangerous  to  make  an  enemy  of  her.  Consequently 
he  appeared  not  to  notice  anything  amiss,  and  accepted 
the  invitation. 

The  party  assembled  in  the  drawing-room  was  very 
animated,  while  in  the  boudoir  adjoining,  where  persons 
were  moving  in  and  out,  the  hostess,  her  friend, 
Fiirstenberg,  and  other  members  of  the  clique  were 
talking  business.  The  largest  circle  of  guests  talked 
of  silk  and  stuff,  and  gossiped  of  matters  familiar  to 
every  one. 

According  to  the  prevailing  opinion,  the  King's 
tenderness  towards  Teschen  was  a  sure  sign  of  her 
downfall.  But  Augustus  II.  was  obliged  to  spare  her, 
for  many  reasons.  Her  relation  to  Sobieskis,  and 
Radziejowskis,  and  her  influence  in  Poland,  obliged 
the  King  to  reckon  with  her. 

In  the  boudoir,  Countess  Reuss  was  asking  Fursten- 


The  Countess  Cosel  75 

berg  what  the  King  had  told  him  concerning  Countess 
Hoym. 

"  I  know  the  King,"  replied  the  Prince,  "especially 
as  regards  his  disposition  towards  women.  Countess 
Hoym  was  sharp  and  proud — that  repelled  him  for  a 
time,  but  her  beauty  appeals  to  his  senses,  and  his 
senses  always  subdue  him.  He  is  afraid  of  her,  and 
therefore  he  will  desire  her  all  the  more — and  you 
know  that  he  must  always  have  that  for  which  he 
longs.  It  appears  that  Countess  Hoym  is  not  inclined 
to  play  the  part  of  an  easy  favourite,  and  the  King 
will  exhaust  all  his  strength  before  he  conquers  her, 
but  there  is  no  doubt  that  he  pleases  her." 

"  Then  you  think  that  her  time  will  come  ?  " 
"Yes.     Speaking  from  my  knowledge  of  him,   the 
King  would   like  to  gratify  his   fancy,  but   he  has  no 
desire  for  more  solid  relations  ;   it  depends  entirely  on 
her,  and  how  she  conducts  this  affair." 

"  Do  you  know  anything  about  her,  Chancellor  ?  " 

"  I  can  only  guess,"  replied  Fiirstenberg.  '•  I  be- 
lieve that  neither  her  husband,  nor  any  one  else, 
perhaps  not  even  she  herself,  knows  how  she  will  act 
when  she  is  extolled.  To-day  she  is  a  proud  and 
noble  woman ;  she  has  a  strong  character,  she  is 
witty,  she  is  clever." 

"But  she  would  let  herself  be  guided  ?"  inquired 
Countess  Reuss. 

The  Prince  became  thoughtful. 

"  I  only  know  this,"  he  replied  at  length,  "  I  prefer 
to  deal  with  intelligent  persons,  rather  than  with  those 
who  do  not  know  what  they  are  doing." 

Silence    followed    this    remark,    and    presently    the 


76  The  Countess  Cosel 

Countess  signed  to  him  to  leave  her  alone.  When  he 
had  departed,  she  walked  up  and  down  her  boudoir 
several  times,  then  she  entered  the  drawing-room. 

J  & 

Here  she  manoeuvred  so  cleverly,  that  she  was  able  to 
approach  Anna,  take  her  away  from  the  circle  of  guests, 
and  lead  her  into  the  boudoir,  where,  after  making  her 
take  a  seat  by  her  side,  she  spoke  as  follows : — 

"  Dear  Countess,  if  you  have  any  patience  and  in- 
dulgence for  an  old  friend,  permit  me  to  speak  with 
you  frankly.  No  one  can  hear  us  in  this  room.  I  wish 
to  advise  and  help  you.  You  know  sufficient  of  the 
court,  the  times  in  which  we  live,  and  of  yourself,  to 
be  certain  that  you  have  not  been  brought  to  Dresden 
in  vain.  The  King  is  weary  of  Teschen,  and  he  must 
be  in  love  with  some  one,  it  is  his  nature,  and  we  must 
be  indulgent  to  such  a  great  and  good  lord,  in  whom, 
the  whole  world  will  forgive  such  weakness.  For  us 
who  surround  the  King,  it  only  remains  to  derive  as 
much  good  from  this  as  we  can.  You  can  occupy  the 
most  brilliant  position  by  the  King's  side,  only  you 
must  be  quick,  and  you  must  also  be  well  aware  of 
what  you  are  going  to  do." 

"  Dear  Countess,"  replied  Anna,  "  I  have  no  am- 
bition, I  do  not  care  for  riches.  I  have  a  husband,  and 
I  desire  to  remain  an  honest  woman." 

"  I  would  not  raise  any  objection  to  your  doing 
so,"  rejoined  Countess  Reuss,  smiling,  "  but  permit 
me  to  say  that  I  can  see  no  reason  why  you  should 
become  a  martyr.  Hoym  is  awful ;  he  is  worn  out, 
he  is  a  libertine,  he  betrays  you ;  it  is  impossible 
for  you  to  love  him  ;  sooner  or  later,  the  heart  must 
speak." 


The  Countess  Cosel  77 

"  I  shall  silence  it!" 

"  Once,  or  twice,  but  afterwards  there  will  come  the 
years  of  weariness  and  longing,  when,  in  your  despair, 
you  will  throw  yourself  on  some  one's  breast,  and  even 
then  you  will  not  be  happy.  I  know  the  world  well ; 
such  is  our  lot.  The  King,  however,  is  fascinating 
and  beautiful,  and  life  with  him  may  become  a  para- 
dise." 

"  But  he  is  inconstant,  and  I  do  not  understand 
capricious  love.  It  disgusts  me!  Such  love  is  not  for 
me ! " 

"  It  is  the  women  who  are  at  fault,"  responded 
Countess  Reuss,  "  if  they  do  not  know  how  to  make 
such  relations  permanent.  It  would  be  useless  to  bind 
him  with  an  oath,  for  the  first  priest  would  release  him 
from  it.  Your  best  guarantee  of  stability  will  lie  in 
your  common  sense,  tact,  and  beauty.  Every  woman 
must  know  how  to  keep  a  husband,  or  a  lover — it  is 
our  business." 

Countess  Hoym  shrugged  her  shoulders. 

"It  is  a  very  poor  love  that  one  has  to  keep  tied 
by  a  string !  "  exclaimed  she.  "  I  do  not  care  for  such 
love  !  But  frankness  for  frankness,  dear  Countess," 
she  continued,  in  a  whisper.  "  I  do  not  pledge  invself. 
At  present,  I  wish  to  remain  faithful  to  Hoym,  and  it 
is  only  love  that  would  ever  make  me  unfaithful  to 
him.  The  moment  I  love,  I  shall  leave  Hoym  and 
go  openly  to  the  one  I  love ;  and  the  man  who  loves 
me  shall  be  my  husband." 

'   But  the  King!  the  King!" 

"  Whether  he  be  a  king  or  no,  matters  not  to  me," 
said  Countess  Hoym. 


y8  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Do  you  know  that  the  King  is  married,  although 
he  does  not  live  with  his  wife  ?  " 

"  He  will  be  obliged  to  obtain  a  divorce  and  marry 
me,"  rejoined  Anna.  "  I  have  no  wish  to  play  the 
role  of  either  Esterle,  or  Konigsmark,  or  of  Teschen." 

Having  said  this,  she  rose  and  walked  majestically 
across  the  room  ;  Countess  Reuss  was  silent,  there 
was  nothing  more  to  be  said. 

"  You  will  do  as  you  please,"  said  she,  after  a  while. 
"  As  a  good  friend,  it  was  my  duty  to  warn  you  and 
give  you  good  advice.  Let  us  remain  friends,  but 
allow  me  to  tell  you  this  :  the  position  you  disdain  is 
not  so  base  and  secondary  as  you  imagine.  The  King 
will  bow  to  your  wishes  ;  you  may  rule  the  country, 
and  do  much  good  ;  you  may  succour  the  unfortunate, 
make  the  people' happy — all  this  is  worth  something." 

"  My  honour  is  dearer  to  me  than  all  that,"  replied 
Countess  Hoym.  "  Let  us  speak  no  more  on  this 
subject." 

They  left  the  room.  The  ladies  in  the  drawing- 
room  looked  at  them  curiously,  trying  to  guess  the 
subject  of  their  conversation.  Anna's  face  was  crimson, 
the  Countess  Reuss  was  pale,  yet  both  were  smiling. 

Suddenly  the  light  of  torches  shone  out  beneath  the 
window,  and,  looking  out,  Fiirstenberg  perceived  the 
King  on  his  way  to  visit  Teschen,  but  he  looked  as 
sad  as  a  man  who  had  been  sentenced  to  suffer  some 
severe  penalty. 


CHAPTER   VI. 

ADOLF  MAGNUS,  Count  Hoym,  who  occupied  a  posi- 
tion corresponding  to  that  of  Secretary  to  the 
Treasury,  had  no  friends,  either  at  court  or  in  the 
country.  All  hated  him,  because  he  imposed  taxes 
on  beer.  The  Saxons  resisted  the  King  as  much  as 
they  could  ;  and  the  King,  who  never  had  sufficient 
money  to  meet  his  enormous  expenses,  was  enraged 
at  their  resistance.  It  was  the  nobles  who  made  the 
strongest  resistance,  and  the  King  was  advised  to 
despoil  them  of  all  their  privileges,  and  surround  him- 
self with  foreigners,  who  would  not  have  any  relations 
either  with  the  nobility  or  with  the  masses  of  the 
people. 

Augustus  had  partially  followed  this  advice,  and  the 
majority  of  his  secretaries  and  favourites  were  taken 
from  foreign  lands.  Italians,  Frenchmen,  and  Germans 
from  other  provinces  occupied  all  the  most  important 
positions  in  the  state.  Hoym,  being  a  very  able  man 
in  finding  new  sources  of  income  for  the  King,  enjoyed 
great  favour  with  His  Majesty  ;  for  Augustus  required 
millions,  for  Poland,  for  the  army,  for  entertainments, 
and  for  his  favourites.  Hoym,  however,  had  no  great 
confidence  in  the  King's  favour ;  the  fate  of  Beichling 


8o  The  Countess  Cosel 

and  several  others  had  rendered  him  distrustful,  and 
he  intended,  as  soon  as  he  had  grown  rich,  to  seize 
the  first  opportunity  to  escape  from  Saxony  with  his 
head  and  his  money. 

Except  Beichlinof,  who  was  at  that  time  imprisoned 
at  Konigstein,  Hoym  did  not  possess  a  single  friend. 
Marshal  Plug  hated  him  ;  Fiirstenberg  could  not  bear 
him  ;  the  others  disliked  him. 

When,  after  the  wager  had  been  laid,  Hoym  was 
commanded  to  bring  his  wife  and  present  her  at 
court,  no  one  pitied  him  ;  on  the  contrary,  all  laughed 
at  his  distress. 

The  day  following  the  ball,  Hoym  was  obliged  to 
bring  the  King  his  report.  The  new  tax  levied  on 
liquors  had  met  with  resistance.  In  the  province  of 
Luzyce,  in  particular,  the  nobles  openly  rebelled  against 
it.  The  King  could  not  bear  the  slightest  resistance 
to  his  will.  When  the  report  was  ended,  Augustus 
the  Strong  turned  to  Hoym,  and,  frowning  angrily, 
said, — 

"  Go  to-day  ;  go  immediately,  arrest  those  who  are 
at  the  head  of  this  opposition,  and  compel  the  others 
to  obey  my  will  !  " 

His  presence  in  Luzyce  not  being  in  the  least  neces- 
sary, Hoym  tried  to  persuade  the  King  to  send  some 
one  else,  and  allow  him  to  remain  in  Dresden,  where 
he  had  affairs  of  greater  importance  to  attend  to. 

"  There  is  nothing  more  important,"  replied  Augus- 
tus, "  than  breaking  the  power  and  quelling  the 
resistance  of  those  arrogant  nobles.  Take  a  squadron 
of  Dragoons  with  you,  and  depart  instantly.  Should 
they  dare  to  assemble,  scatter  them.  Tell  them  not  to 


The  Countess  Cosel  Si 

follow  the  example  of  the  Polish  nobles,  for  I  will  not 
suffer  anything  of  that  kind  from  my  own  subjects. 
In  two  hours  you  should  be  on  the  road  to  Budzisyn." 

His  subjects  might  discuss  matters  with  the  King 
when  he  was  drunk,  but  when  sober  Augustus  had 
his  will,  and  only  one  word. 

This  expedition,  following,  as  it  did,  closely  on  the 
ball,  seemed  to  Hoym  very  suspicious.  He  knew  the 
King,  the  court,  and  all  that  was  passing  there,  and  he 
was  convinced  that  he  was  being  sent  away  so  that  he 
might  not  prove  an  obstacle  to  the  monarch's  wishes, 
and  that  Augustus  might  be  left  at  liberty  to  court 
his  wife.  Still  he  could  do  nothing  to  prevent  it. 
He  had  no  friends  ;  he  could  not  even  trust  his  own 
sister.  He  felt  that  all  the  court  was  against  him. 

On  returning  home,  he  threw  the  papers  on  the 
table,  tore  his  dress,  then,  throwing  open  the  door  with 
a  great  noise,  rushed  like  a  madman  into  his  wife's 
apartment. 

She  was  alone.  He  looked  at  her  inquisitively,  and 
at  even  the  smallest  objects  surrounding  her.  Anger 
was  depicted  on  his  pale  features.  Anna  looked  up  at 
him  calmly.  She  was  accustomed  to  such  scenes. 

"You  can  rejoice,  madam,"  he  exclaimed.  "  I  was 
fool  enough  to  bring  you  here,  and  now  they  will  do 
with  me.  as  they  please.  I  am  an  obstacle  in  the 
King's  path,  therefore  His  Majesty  sends  me  away. 
I  leave  here  in  an  hour,  then  you  will  be  left  alone." 

"And  what  do  you  mean  by  all  this,  if  you  please  ?  " 
inquired  the  Countess  contemptuously.  "  Do  you 
require  a  troop  of  guards  to  defend  my  honour  ? " 

"  No.     But  I  think  that  my  presence  would  at  least 


82  The  Countess  Cosel 

restrain  their  effrontery,"  shouted  Hoym.  "They 
would  not  send  me  away  were  I  not  an  obstacle  to 
them.  In  all  this  I  see  the  ringer  of  dear  Fiirstenberg, 
who  laughed  ironically  as  he  paid  me  that  thousand 
ducats.  I  know  that  he  has  received  ten  thousand 
from  the  King  for  his  brilliant  idea  of  bringing  you  here." 

"Hoym!"  exclaimed  Anna,  rising,  "enough  of 
these  insults.  Go  !  Go  !  Do  what  you  please,  only 
leave  me  in  peace.  I  can  protect  myself.'' 

Hoym  was  silent ;  his  face  grew  gloomy,  for  the 
hands  of  the  clock  announced  the  hour  of  his  departure. 

"  I  do  not  need  to  warn  you,"  he  said.  "  You  know 
all  that  may  happen  to  you  here.  But  one  thing  I 
must  tell  you,  I  will  not  endure  any  shame.  Others 
may  be  indulgent — I  cannot  be  !  " 

"  I  have  not  sunk  so  low  as  those  ladies,"  said  Anna, 
interrupting  him.  "  I  shall  not  betray  you,  because  in 
so  doing  I  should  humiliate  myself.  Should  you  make 
my  life  yet  more  unendurable,  I  shall  leave  you  openly." 

Hoym  said  nothing  further.  He  hesitated  for  a 
moment,  but  a  rap  was  heard  at  the  door.  It  was  the 
King's  messenger  come  to  remind  him  of  the  hour  of 
departure. 

In  the  castle  the  occupants  were  watching  for  Hoym 
to  cross  the  bridge.  According  to  a  pre-arranged 
plan,  Countess  Reuss  was  to  invite  Anna  to  her  palace, 
there  the  King  could  journey  incognito.  Countess 
Vitzthum  was  immediately  despatched  to  accomplish 
this  mission  secretly,  but  Anna  refused.  It  was  in 
vain  that  the  Countess  strove  to  prove  to  her  that 
none  would  know  of  her  visit;  her  sister-in-law 
guessed  their  plans,  and  told  her  so. 


The  Countess  Cosel  83 

"You  are  too  intelligent,"  laughed  Countess 
Vitzthum,  "  for  me  to  try  to  conceal  the  truth  from 
you.  It  is  possible  that  the  King  may  wish  to  become 
better  acquainted  with  you,  and  that  knowing  every- 
thing, he  might  call  at  Countess  Reuss's  castle.  But 
what  would  you  do  should  he,  in  order  to  satisfy  his 
curiosity,  call  on  you  here  ?  You  could  not  shut  the 
door  on  the  King.  Would  it  be  more  seemly  for  him  to 
spend  a  few  hours  alone  with  you  in  your  own  home  ?  " 

"  But  the  King  would  not  do  such  a  thing.  He 
would  not  cast  a  shadow  on  my  reputation  !  " 

"  Everything  is  possible  for  him  to  do.  He  is 
wearied  and  curious,  and  he  cannot  endure  any  resis- 
tance to  his  will.  The  women  have  taught  him 
despotism  by  their  submission.  If  you  do  not  accept 
the  Countess  Reuss's  invitation,  the  King  will  certainly 
come  here.'' 

"  How  do  vou  know  this  ?  " 

4 

"I  do  not  know  anything,"  said  the  Countess 
Vitzthum,  laughing,  "  but  I  know  our  lord  perfectly.  I 
remember  a  certain  evening  in  my  own  life,"  she  added, 
sighing. 

Anna  wrung  her  hands. 

"  Then  it  is  necessary  to  be  armed  here,  as  on  the 
road,  against  highway  robbers  !  I  will  find  a  pistol 
and  dagger  ! " 

Countess  Vitzthum  endeavoured  to  soothe  the 
irritated  woman,  and  to  turn  everything  into  a  laugh. 

"  You  must  know,"  said  she,  "  that  never  in  all  his 
life  has  Augustus  used  force  with  any  woman.  That 
is  not  his  nature.  He  is  far  too  good-looking  and  too 
fascinating  to  have  recourse  to  rough  treatment." 


84  The  Countess  Cosel 

After  much  conversation  Anna  finally  decided  to 
visit  Countess  Reuss  that  evening  in  company  with 
her  sister-in-law.  With  this  joyful  news  Countess 
Vitzthum  hastened  to  her  friend,  and  Fiirstenberg 
carried  the  tidings  to  the  castle. 

The  King  said  that  he  would  pay  a  short  visit  to 
Princess  Teschen,  and  then  on  his  way  back  he  would 
send  his  carriage  to  the  castle,  and  proceed  in  a  litter, 
and  incognito,  to  call  on  Countess  Reuss. 

Any  other  woman,  who  was  unhappy  with  her 
husband,  would  have  been  only  too  glad  to  seize  this 
opportunity  of  a  splendid,  although  unstable  career, 
with  the  certainty  of  acquiring  riches,  and  the  hope 
that  perhaps  a  marriage  would  eventually  cover 
the  fault  of  a  moment.  But  Anna,  Countess  Hoym, 
had  been  educated  in  strict  .principles;  she  felt 
indignant  at  the  light-hearted  conduct  of  those 
women,  who  consented  to  serve  as  playthings 
for  their  wearied  lord.  She  realized  the  possibility 
of  a  divorce  from  Hoym,  for  she  was  disgusted 
with  him,  but  she  would  not  give  up  her  husband 
save  for  love  of  the  King,  and  for  a  marriage  with 
him. 

Such  an  idea  would  have  excited  the  mirth  of  any 
one  to  whom  she  mentioned  it.  To  wish  to  chain 
so  frivolous  a  man  as  Augustus  seemed  an  utter 
absurdity. 

The  King  was  handsome  ;  he  strove  to  please  ;  the 
glamour  of  power  and  of  the  crown  increased  his 
charm  ;  what  wonder  that  Anna's  heart  yearned  for 
him !  Although  she  felt  that  she  could  be  happy 
with  him,  she  could  not,  even  for  a  moment,  admit  the 


The  Countess  Cosel  85 

possibility  of  such  happiness  being  realized  in  any  way 
other  than  by  marriage. 

During  the  time  that  elapsed  after  the  ball,  amidst 
the  pressure  of  the  intrigues  that  were  being  carried 
on  around  her  with  the  object  of  enabling  Augustus 
to  approach  her,  Anna  was  continually  thinking  and 
pondering.  At  length  she  said  to  herself, — 

"  I  may  be  his,  but  I  must  be  the  Queen." 

And  she  determined  to  resign  everything  rather  than 
be  the  creature  of  intrigues.  She  felt  that  she  was 
strong ;  the  mirror  assured  her  of  her  beauty  and 
charm  ;  she  read  in  the  King's  eyes  the  impression 
she  had  made  on  him — she  resolved  to  take  advantage 
of  it. 

"  I  shall  never  degenerate,"  said  she  to  herself.     "  I 

o 

would  rather  be  Hoym's  unfortunate  wife  than 
Augustus's  mistress.  I  must  be  his  wife  or  nothing." 

She  had  already  resigned  herself  to  her  fate,  the 
only  question  was  as  to  the  conditions.  Yet  none 
suspected  that  Countess  Hoym  had  resolved  to  break 
with  her  husband,  although  they  had  calculated  that 
circumstances  might  arise  that  would  induce  her  to  do 
so. 

Anna  had  been  indulging  in  dreams,  and  dreams  are 
dangerous  companions  in  solitude.  Pride  and  the 
desire  to  rule  had  slowly  risen  within  her  soul,  and 
made  her  ready  to  capitulate. 

When  the  hour  fixed  for  the  visit  arrived,  Anna  was 
ready.  She  had  dressed  herself  with  the  greatest 
care,  and  her  robe  was  both  tasteful  and  modest. 
Her  complexion  did  not  require  the  aid  of  paint,  it 
was  snow-white  by  nature,  and  her  luxuriant  black 


86  The  Countess  Cosel 

curls  did  but  the  more  increase  the  transparency  of 
her  skin.  But  these  attractions  were  as  nothing  when 
compared  with  her  eyes,  so  full  of  fire,  and  possessed 
of  such  a  bewitching  charm.  A  glance  from  those 
eyes  could  drive  a  man  mad,  and  they  said  more  than 
their  owner  would  have  cared  to  express  with  her  lips. 

Looking  in  the  mirror,  she  found  she  was  so 
beautiful  that  she  smiled  with  satisfaction.  Her  dress 
was  black  enlivened  with  crimson  ribbons,  which 
made  a  most  picturesque  costume.  The  Countess 
Vitzthum,  who  came  to  fetch  her,  screamed  with 
admiration  on  beholding  her,  so  beautiful  did  she 
appear,  and  she  for  one  would  have  felt  no  surprise 
had  a  crown  been  thrown  at  her  feet. 

"  You  say  you  wish  to  live  with  my  brother,"  said 
she,  "  and  yet  you  dress  so  beautifully  to  receive  the 
King  ?  " 

"  No  woman  would  willingly  make  herself  appear 
homely,"  replied  Anna  coldly. 

"  But  you  are  quite  a  master  in  the  art  of  dress,  and 
need  no  advice.  Well,  let  us  be  going." 

The  same  kind  of  admiring  exclamations  greeted 
her  on  her  arrival  at  Countess  Reuss's  house.  At  the 
ball,  her  beauty  had  surpassed  all  expectation,  here  it 
was  dazzling.  Even  those  ladies  who  had  not  given 
up  being  beautiful  felt  old  and  withered  beside  her. 
Although  they  knew  that  she  was  twenty-four,  Anna 
did  not  appear  to  them  to  be  more  than  eighteen. 

No  one  felt  more  pleasure  in  her  appearance  than 
Countess  Reuss,  for  she  was  now  sure  of  the  success 
of  her  plans.  All  crowded  around  Anna,  rendering 
her  homage  as  to  a  queen,  and  trying  to  gain  her 


The  Countess  Cosel  87 

favour.     Fiirstenberg,    who    arrived    a   few    moments 
before  the  King,  was  lost  in  amazement. 

"  I  know  the  King,"  said  he,  "  she  will  be  able  to 
do  anything  she  likes  with  him  if  only  she  knows  how 
to  stand  firm." 

Anna  was  guided  by  instinct,  and  needed  none  to 
teach  her. 

After  a  few  moments  the  door  opened  cautiously, 
and  the  King  entered  the  room.  While  yet  on  the 
threshold  his  eyes  were  eagerly  searching  for  Anna. 
Perceiving  her,  he  blushed,  then  he  turned  pale,  grew 
confused,  and,  forgetful  of  his  hostess,  he  rushed  forward 
to  greet  Countess  Hoym.  On  his  brow  there  was 
now  no  trace  of  regret  for  lost  millions,  anger  at  Polish 
ingratitude,  shame  at  his  defeat  by  the  Swedes,  or 
any  sign  of  disappointment. 

Anna  welcomed  him  coolly,  but  her  dress  alone  was 
sufficiently  eloquent.  That  she  wished  to  please  him 
was  evident,  and  this  gave  him  hope. 

Although  Anna  had  made  a  great  impression  on 
him,  the  King  was,  nevertheless,  very  careful  to 
observe  all  those  forms  of  civility  due  to  the  fair  sex, 
and  although  he  hated  the  Countess  Reuss,  he  sat 
beside  her  for  a  few  moments,  chatting  courteously, 
yet  all  the  while  looking  towards  Countess  Hoym. 
He  whispered  to  Fraulein  Hulchen,  smiled  at 
Countess  Vitzthum,  and  gratified  all  the  ladies  by  his 
glances.  During  this  ceremony,  Countess  Vitzthum 
had  time  to  lead  her  sister-in-law  into  an  adjoining 
room  under  the  pretence  of  having  an  interesting 
conversation  with  her.  It  was  a  strategical  manoeuvre 
to  enable  the  King  to  have  a  sweet  tete-a-tete,  for  the 


88  The  Countess  Cosel 

moment  Augustus  appeared  in  the  doorway,  Countess 
Vitzthum  retreated  towards  the  drawing-room,  and 
soon  disappeared. 

It  is  true  that  the  door  remained  open,  and  the 
portiere  that  was  raised  allowed  the  chattering  ladies 
to  gaze  on  His  Majesty,  but  no  one  could  hear  a  word 
of  what  the  two  were  saying. 

"  Madame,  to-day  you  are  quite  different  to  yester- 
day, and  even  more  beautiful !  You  are  bewitching  !  " 
he  exclaimed,  without  any  restraint. 

"  Your  Majesty's  indulgence  is  so  well  known,  that  it 
is  difficult  to  believe  these  most  flattering  compliments," 
replied  Anna. 

"  Do  you  wish  me  to  swear  it  ?  I  am  ready  to  take 
an  oath  by  all  the  gods  of  Olympus,  that  I  have  never 
seen  such  a  beautiful  woman.  I  am  amazed  at  the 
cruelty  of  that  destiny  which  has  given  such  an  angel 
into  Hoym's  hands." 

In  spite  of  herself,  Anna  laughed,  and  for  the  first 
time  a  row  of  pearl-like  teeth  appeared  behind 
her  coral  lips.  Her  laughter  made  her  yet  more 
beautiful. 

The  King  looked  at  her  hands,  they  were  so  beauti- 
ful, that  he  was  seized  with  a  passionate  desire  to  kiss 
them,  and  it  was  with  difficulty  that  he  abstained  from 
pressing  one  of  them  to  his  lips.  They  were  perfec- 
tion. His  head  was  beginning  to  be  turned. 

"Were  I  a  tyrant,"  said  he,  "I  should  forbid 
Hoym  ever  to  return  hither,  I  am  jealous  of  that 
Vulcan/' 

"  Vulcan  is  likewise  jealous,"  responded  Anna. 

"  But  Venus  cannot  love  him  !  "  said  the  King. 


The  Countess  Cosel  89 

"Should  love  be  wanting,  there  are  other  chains 
that  bind  yet  stronger  than  those  of  love — the  chains 
formed  by  oath  and  by  duty.'' 

The  King  smiled. 

"An  oath  in  love  !  " 

"  No,  your  Majesty,  in  marriage." 

"  But  there  are  sacrilegious  marriages,"  observed 
Augustus,  "  and  I  regard  as  such,  those  marriages  in 
which  beauty  is  united  to  ugliness.  In  such  cases  the 
gods  give  absolution  for  the  broken  oath." 

"  But  pride  will  not  suffer  one  to  accept  it." 

"  You  are  too  severe,  madame." 

"  More  so  than  your  Majesty  supposes." 

"  Countess,  you  terrify  me." 

"  Your  Majesty  ?  "  Anna  smiled.  "  Why  should  my 
lord  care  aught  about  severity  ? " 

"  More  than  you  suppose,"  replied  the  King, 
repeating  her  own  words. 

''  That  I  cannot  understand,"  whispered  Anna. 

"  What  ?  Then  you  do  not  wish  to  see  that  I  was 
conquered  by  your  first  glance." 

"  That  will  not  last  until  day-break,  I  fancy.  Your 
Majesty  has  this  in  common  with  the  gods,  that  you 
love  and  forget  easily." 

"  No,"  exclaimed  the  King,  "  believe  me,  those  are 
calumnies.  Is  it  my  fault  that  I  have  never  yet  met 
with  a  heart,  a  mind,  a  beauty  to  which  I  was  able  to 
attach  myself  for  ever  ?  It  is  not  I  who  am  unfaithful, 
I  am  betrayed.  Each  day  these  goddesses  lose  some 
charm,  miracles  become  ordinary  phenomena,  the 
angels  lose  their  wings,  and,  instead  of  finding  love  in 
the  heart,  I  discover  only  coquettishness  and  coldness. 


90  The  Countess  Cosel 

Am  I  the  guilty  one  ?  Believe  me,  madame,"  he 
continued,  with  enthusiasm,  "  I  am  busy  searching  for 
a  woman  to  whom  I  could  belong  all  my  life  long. 
To  such  a  woman  I  would  give  myself  entirely." 

"  It  is  difficult  to  believe  that,"  whispered  Anna, 
"and  it  is  still  more  difficult  to  imagine  a  perfection 
that  would  be  worthy  of  your  Majesty." 

"  I  find  it  in  you,"  interrupted  the  King.  "  You  are 
bewitching,"  he  added,  stretching  forth  his  hands  to 
seize  hers. 

Anna  wished  to  withdraw  them,  but  etiquette  did 
not  allow  of  this,  and,  seizing  her  white  hand,  the  King 
began  to  kiss  it,  and  this  he  continued  to  do  for 
so  long,  that  at  length  Anna  grew  afraid  that  those  in 
the  drawing-room  would  see  this  familiar  behaviour, 
and,  with  all  due  respect  for  His  Majesty,  slowly  with- 
drew her  hand. 

Augustus  rose  full  of  emotion. 

"  I  cannot  separate  myself  from  you,"  said  he,  "  I 
see  that  I  shall  be  obliged  to  summon  the  power  of 
the  King  to  aid  my  ardour,  which  does  not  appear  to 
move  you  in  the  least.  You  cannot  leave  the  city.  I 
arrest  you.  As  for  Hoym,  only  your  intercession- 
He  did  not  finish  his  speech.  Anna  had  no  idea 
of  interceding. 

Their  conversation  would  have  lasted  much  longer, 
for  Augustus  was  very  excited,  only  Countess 
Reuss  entered,  to  beg  the  King  to  partake  of  a 
collation  of  sweetmeats,  fruits,  and  wine.  The  King 
consented,  and  drank  the  first  glass  of  wine  to  Anna's 
health. 

Fiirstenberg  watched  him  attentively. 


The  Countess  Cosel  91 

"  Teschen  is  lost ! "  whispered  he  to  Countess 
Vitzthum. 

"And  my  brother  likewise!  "  replied  she,  also  in  a 
whisper.  "  Provided  only  that  my  sister-in-law  has 


sense 


"  I  wish  she  had  not  so  much,"  rejoined  Fiirsten- 
berg.  ''  Look  what  self-possession  she  has  preserved, 
the  King  did  not  succeed  in  turning  her  head,  but  it 
seems  to  me  that  he  has  lost  his  own.'' 

The  collation  ended,  the  ladies  again  withdrew,  and 
Augustus  endeavoured  to  detain  Anna  by  entering 
into  a  clever  conversation.  She  remained,  was  ani- 
mated and  witty,  but  both  the  King  and  Ftirstenberg 
remarked  that  she  still  retained  her  self-possession, 
and  was  not  in  the  least  intoxicated  by  her  splendid 
triumph.  It  was  the  first  time  in  his  life  that  Augustus 
had  met  such  a  woman.  She  did  not  immediately 
succumb  to  his  love  as  the  others  had  done,  neither 
did  she  appear  to  take  any  advantage  of  it. 

It  stung  him  to  the  quick. 

This  woman's  calmness  began  to  irritate  him,  but  at 
the  same  time  it  increased  his  passion. 

At  first  he  had  only  intended  to  carry  on  a  short 
intrigue  with  Countess  Hoym,  but  he  now  saw  that 
this  would  be  more  difficult  than  he  had  thought 
or  calculated. 

Anna  laughed,  jested,  and  was  very  amusing  ;  she 
was  evidently  trying  to  entangle  the  King,  but  she 
herself  remained  calm  and  inaccessible.  Instead  of 
approaching  his  object,  with  the  good  fortune  of 
Jupiter,  Augustus  perceived  that  he  was  drifting  away 
from  it. 


92  The  Countess  Cosel 

At  the  close  of  the  conversation,  when  the  King- 
became  more  pressing,  and  no  longer  concealed  his 
ardour,  he  begged  for  a  small  place  in  the  heart  of 
the  beautiful  lady.  Anna,  who  had  already  grown 
familiar  with  him,  replied  with  precision,— 

"  Your  Majesty  forces  me  to  make  an  unpleasant 
avowal.  I  am  one  of  those  unfortunate,  feeble 
creatures,  whose  pride  is  their  only  strength.  If  your 
Majesty  imagines  that,  dazzled  by  the  allurements 
held  out  to  me,  I  shall  forget  the  respect  due  to 
myself,  or  that,  carried  away  by  a  momentary  madness, 
1  shall  forget1  the  future,  your  Majesty  is  mistaken. 
Anna  Hoym  will  never  become  the  King's  temporary 
favourite.  She  will  give  her  whole  heart,  and  for 
ever,  or  nothing." 

Having  said  this,  she  rose  and  passed  into  the 
drawing- room. 

Immediately  after  this,  the  King,  accompanied  by 
Fiirstenberg,  quietly  left  Countess  Reuss's  house. 
The  Countess  followed  him  to  the  hall,  Augustus's 
face  was  gloomy  and  sad.  From  this,  his  hostess 
guessed  how  Anna  had  treated  the  King,  but  she  was 
glad  of  it,  for  their  relations  promised  to  be  the  more 
lasting  in  proportion  to  the  difficulty  of  the  com- 
mencement. A  short  love  intrigue,  that  did  not  over- 
throw the  Princess  Teschen,  would  not  accord  with 
her  plans,  for  through  Anna  she  expected  that  her 
own  influence  would  be  more  firmly  established. 

"  Dear  Countess,"  whispered  the  King,  as  he  bade 
her  farewell,  "  try  to  animate  that  beautiful  statue." 

Before  Countess  Reuss  could  reply,  the  King  had 
descended  the  stairs.  The  conversation  that  ensued 


The  Countess  Cosel  93 

between  him  and  such  an  intimate  friend  as  Ftirsten- 
berg  was  different. 

"The  woman  is  enchanting,"  said  the  King,  "but 
at  the  same  time  she  repels,  and  is  cold  as  an  icicle." 

"  Your  Majesty,  women  are  of  different  tempera- 
ments ;  it  is  no  wonder  that  she  protects  herself." 

"  But  she  speaks  frankly  about  marriage." 

"  Every  woman  thinks  that  love  for  her  must  be 
everlasting,  and  one  can  promise  that  to  every  one." 

"It  will  not  be  done  very  easily  with  this  one," 
added  Augustus,  "  Teschen  was  much  easier.'1 

"  But  there  is  no  comparison  between  them." 

"  Alas  !  that  is  only  too  true.  She  is  far  superior  to 
Teschen.  Send  Hoym  an  order  that  he  is  not  to  dare 
to  return." 

"But  what  is  he  to  do  there?"  laughed  the 
Prince. 

"  Let  him  do  what  he  pleases,"  said  the  King. 
"  Before  all  things,  he  must  collect  as  much  money  as 
possible,  for  it  seems  to  me  that  my  new  love  will  be 
very  costly." 

"  Your  Majesty,  then,  is  already  talking  of  love  ?  " 

"  And  of  fear,  too  !  Fiirstchen,  you  can  do  what 
you  please,  but  she  must  be  mine." 

"And  Ursula?" 

"  Marry  her  !  " 

11  Thanks." 

"  Then  marry  her  to  any  one  else  you  please  ;  all  is 
over  between  us." 

"Already?"  inquired  the  Prince,  with  scarcely 
concealed  joy. 

"  Yes  !    I  shall  gild  Hoym,  her,  and  you." 


94  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  But  from  whence  shall  we  obtain  so  much  gold  ?' 
"  That  concerns  Hoym,"  replied  the  King. 
They  entered  the  palace  as  he  spoke,  and  Augustus 
went    directly   to    his    chamber.       He    was    sad    and 
thoughtful.     The  last  campaign,  disastrous  as  it  was, 
had  not  caused  him  so  much  sorrow  as  the  ill-success 
of  this  evening. 


CHAPTER   VII. 

THUS  began  the  reign  of  one  woman  at  the  Court  of 
Augustus  II.,  and  it  lasted  longer  than  any  other  of 
the  same  kind. 

The  Court,  and  indeed  the  whole  city,  watched  with 
great  interest  the  course  of  this  intrigue,  the  end  of 
which  could  be  easily  guessed. 

Hoym  was  forbidden  to  return.  Every  day  the 
Countesses  Reuss  and  Vitzthum,  assisted  by  the 
Prince,  invented  some  new  pretext  for  bringing  the 
King  and  the  beautiful  Anna  together;  every  day  she 
was  bolder  and  more  familiar  with  him,  but  since  the 
evening  spent  at  Countess  Reuss's  house,  Augustus 
had  made  no  further  advances,  neither  had  he  heard 
from  her  anything  different  from  what  she  had  then 
said.  The  beautiful  Anna  showed  no  signs  of  yielding, 
and  at  length  her  coolness  and  self-possession  began 
to  alarm  every  one.  They  feared  the  King  would  be 
discouraged,  and  retire,  and  that  then  some  one  else 
would  be  suggested  to  him.  Every  time  they 
attempted  to  question  Countess  Hoym,  she  replied 
that  she  would  become  a  wife,  but  never  a  mistress. 
She  demanded,  if  not  an  immediate  marriage,  to 
which  there  was  an  obstacle  in  the  person  of  Queen 


96  The  Countess  Cosel 

Christine  Eberhardyne,  at  least  a  solemn  promise  from 
the  King  that  he  would  marry  her,  in  the  event  of  his 
becoming  a  widower. 

The  condition  was  most  strange  and  unusual ;  in 
other  times,  or  in  other  courts,  or  amongst  a  less 
light-headed  people,  it  would  have  been  impossible. 
The  first  time  Ftirstenberg  mentioned  it  to  the  King, 
Augustus  did  not  reply.  A  few  hours  later,  he 
said, — 

"  I  am  already  weary  of  this  long  courtship,  we  must 
end  it  once  and  for  ever." 

"  Break  it  ?"  inquired  the  Prince. 

"  We  shall  see,"  replied  the  King  briefly. 

His  confidant  could  learn  nothing  farther. 

One  day  the  King  ordered  a  hundred  thousand  gold 
thalers  to  be  brought  him  from  the  treasury.  The 
bag  was  enormous,  and  two  strong  men  could  scarcely 
carry  it.  When  they  had  deposited  their  heavy 
burden,  the  King  seized  it,  and  lifted  it  without  the 
slightest  difficulty.  Ftirstenberg,  who  was  present, 
did  not  dare  ask  for  what  purpose  such  an  amount 
was  destined,  the  King's  face  was  far  too  gloomy.  It 
was  clear  that  events  of  considerable  importance  were 
at  hand.  The  King  was  silent.  He  visited  Princess 
Teschen  almost  daily.  That  Princess  almost  drowned 
herself  in  tears  when  the  name  of  Countess  Hoym  was 
mentioned  in  her  presence,  but  she  quickly  dried  them 
when  she  perceived  the  King.  In  this  state  ol 
uncertainty  several  weeks  passed  away — -a  time  that 
seemed  to  the  courtiers  all  too  long.  They  knew  not 
to  whom  they  should  bow,  nor  to  whom  they  should 
go  with  gossip.  At  length  Hoym  was  not  only 


The  Countess  Cosel  97 

permitted,  but  even  commanded  to  return,  for  the 
treasury  was  empty,  and  he  alone  could  fill  it. 

The  day  the  Secretary  to  the  Treasury  was  expected 
to  return,  Augustus,  having  placed  the  bag  containing 
the  hundred  thousand  thalers  in  his  carriage,  gave 
orders  that  he  should  be  driven  to  Hoym's  palace. 

It  was  towards  evening,  and  foggy.  Countess 
Hoym  was  sitting  solitary  and  thoughtful  in  her 
boudoir.  Being  unaccustomed  to  receive  visitors,  she 
was  greatly  surprised  at  hearing  the  voices  of  men 
conversing  on  the  stairs,  and  her  astonishment 
increased  when,  without  any  warning,  the  door  opened 
and  the  King  entered  the  room. 

The  door  was  immediately  closed  behind  him. 
Anna  was  terrified,  and  seized  the  pistol  which,  ever 
since  her  arrival  in  Dresden,  she  had  kept  lying  on 
the  table.  She  had  frequently  been  joked  with  about 
this  precaution.  Although  she  concealed  the  weapon 
in  the  folds  of  her  dress,  the  King  had  noticed  her 
action. 

"  You  do  not  need  to  defend  yourself,"  said  he. 

Anna  stared  at  him,  but  was  incapable  of  uttering  a 
word. 

"  Listen,"  continued  Augustus,  throwing  the  bag  of 
gold  on  the  floor  with  such  violence  that  the  ducats 
were  scattered.  "  I  can  give  you  gold,  honours,  and 
titles  in  abundance." 

Then,  taking  a  horse-shoe  he  had  brought  with  him, 
he  broke  it,  and  cast  the  fragments  on  the  piles  of 
gold. 

"  But,"  he  added,  "  I  can  also  break  resistance  as 
I  have  just  broken  that  iron.  You  have  to  choose 

H 


between  iron  and  gold,  peace  and  war,  love  and 
hatred." 

Anna  stood  looking  with  indifference  on  the  gold 
and  the  broken  horse-shoe. 

"  Your  Majesty,"  said  she,  after  a  moment's  silence, 
"  I  do  not  fear  death,  I  do  not  wish  for  gold.  You 
can  break  me  as  you  broke  that  horse-shoe,  but  you 
cannot  do  anything  against  my  will.  Why  do  you  not 
bring  me  the  thing  that  can  conquer  me  ?  Why  do 
you  not  offer  me  your  heart  ?  " 

Augustus  rushed  towards  her. 

"  That  has  been  yours  for  a  long  time,"  he 
exclaimed. 

"  I  neither  see  it,  nor  feel  it,"  said  the  Countess 
slowly.  "  The  heart  is  shown  in  deeds.  A  heart  that 
loves  truly  would  never  wish  to  dishonour  the  object 
of  its  love.  My  Lord,  I  cannot  conceal  from  you 
that  I  love  you.  I  could  not  resist  your  love,  but  I 
cannot  stain  it !  " 

The  King  knelt  before  her,  but  Anna  retreated. 

"Your  Majesty,  listen  to  me,  I  pray  you." 

"  Command  me  !" 

"Anna  Hoym  could  never  be  yours  except  she  felt 
she  were  worthy  of  you." 

"  What  are  your  conditions  ?  " 

"A  written  promise  that  you  will  marry  me." 

Hearing  this,  Augustus  frowned,  and  drooped  his 
head. 

"  Believe  me,  Anna,  such  a  condition  is  full  of 
danger  for  yourself." 

"  I  will  not  give  it  up.  I  would  give  my  life  for  it. 
My  honour  requires  it.  Then  I  should  be  your 


The  Countess  Cosel  99 

Majesty's  wife,  in  thought  and  in  hope.  Else  you 
shall  not  touch  me  ;  I  will  kill  myself  if  you  do  !  " 

The  King  retreated. 

"  Very  well,  then,"  said  he,  "  if  that  is  your  wish, 
you  shall  have  it." 

Anna  gave  a  cry  of  joy. 

"  All  the  rest  is  as  nothing  in  comparison  with 
that!"  she  exclaimed  in  a  voice  full  of  happiness. 
"  But  first  I  must  be  divorced  from  Hoym." 

"That  shall  be  done  to-morrow.  I  will  have  it 
signed  in  the  consistory,"  said  the  King  hastily. 
"  Now,  what  further  ?  " 

"  Nothing  more  on  my  side,"  she  replied  in  a 
broken  voice,  as  she  knelt  before  the  King.  "  That  is 
sufficient  for  me." 

"  But  it  is  not  sufficient  for  the  King,  for  me,"  said 
Augustus,  seizing  her  in  his  arms,  from  which,  how- 
ever, Anna  escaped  by  slipping  down  on  the  floor. 

"  I  believe  your  Majesty's  word,"  she  exclaimed  ; 
"Jbut  before  I  permit  myself  to  be  touched,  the  chains 
that  bind  me  must  be  broken,  the  divorce  must  be 
pronounced,  your  promise  signed.  I  am  Hoym's  wife, 
I  have  sworn  to  be  faithful  to  him — I  must  keep  my 
oath." 

Augustus  kissed  her  hand. 

"  I  am  your  slave,  you  are  my  lady  !  Hoym  returns 
to-day,  leave  him ;  to-morrow  I  will  have  a  palace 
ready  for  you.  You  shall  have  a  hundred  thousand 
thalers  a  year,  I  will  lay  my  whole  kingdom  at  your 
feet,  and  with  it,  myself." 

Seeing  him  kneeling  at  her  feet,  Anna  kissed  his 
forehead,  then  she  sprang  backwards. 


ioo  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Until  to-morrow  !  "  she  said. 

"  Am  I  to  leave  you  ?  "  inquired  Augustus. 

"  Until  to-morrow,"  she  repeated. 

Then  the  King  rose  and  left  her.  The  heaps  of 
gold  remained  lying  on  the  floor. 

That  same  night  Count  Hoym  returned  home. 
He  hastened  to  his  wife's  apartment,  but  found  the 
door  locked,  and,  on  inquiring  of  the  servants,  was 
informed  that  their  lady  was  unwell  and  had 
retired  to  rest,  after  giving  orders  that  no  one  should 
disturb  her. 

During  his  absence,  which  was  of  an  unnecessary 
length,  the  Count  had  grown  seriously  uneasy  about 
his  wife.  It  was  true  that  his  spies  wrote  to  him 
daily,  informing  him  of  her  every  movement,  but  as 
she  was  always  accompanied  by  his  sister,  he  could 
not  foresee  any  danger.  He  felt,  however,  that  the 
intrigue  was  growing  ever  stronger  and  stronger,  and 
that  it  threatened  his  matrimonial  life.  Still  he  was 
powerless  to  prevent  it,  for  at  its  head  was  the  King, 
and  him  Hoym  feared,  for  he  knew  him  better  than 
any  one  else  did.  Besides,  he  could  not  forget  the  fate 
that  had  overtaken  Beichling.  The  best  guarantee  of 
safety  that  he  had,  lay  in  his  wife's  character,  her  pride, 
and  her  love  for  her  good  reputation. 

When  he  returned  to  Dresden,  he  knew  nothing 
but  what  his  spies  had  informed  him ;  in  the  city,  and 
from  the  people  of  the  court,  he  could  not  expect  to 
learn  anything. 

The  hour  was  late,  but  although  at  the  King's 
castle  a  feast  was  in  progress,  Hoym  had  no  wish  to 
go  thither  ;  instead,  he  went  straight  to  his  own  home, 


The  Countess  Cosel  101 

and  having  found  his  wife's  door  locked,  he,  also 
retired  to  rest. 

The  following  day  the  King  sent  for  him,  and  he 
was  obliged  to  obey  the  summons,  and  go  to  the  castle 
without  having  seen  his  wife. 

The  King  received  him  very  kindly,  he  even 
embraced  him,  and  this  Hoym  regarded  as  the  worst 
possible  sign.  Next  Augustus  reproached  him  with 
having  remained  away  so  long,  and  although  he 
himself  had  commanded  that  the  Count  should  not 
return,  he  acted  as  though  he  knew  nothing  of  the 
order. 

Hoym  gazed  into  the  King's  eyes  in  astonishment. 

"  It  is  evident  that  you  have  some  enemies  at 
court,"  said  the  King.  "  They  wished  to  keep  you 
away  from  me,  but  fear  nothing,  I  am  your  friend,  I 
will  not  allow  you  to  be  wronged." 

Hoym  thanked  the  King  for  his  favour.  Then, 
during  their  further  conversation,  His  Majesty  com- 
plained that  he  had  not  sufficient  money. 

"Dear  Hoym,"  said  he,  "you  must  procure  it,  I 
need  it  so  very  badly." 

It  was  towards  noon  when  Hoym  at  length  returned 
to  his  home.  He  had  scarcely  crossed  the  threshold  of 
his  room,  than  Anna,  dressed  in  black,  appeared  before 
him.  Never  before  had  she  looked  more  beautiful, 
calm,  and  dignified. 

Hoym  sprang  towards  her,  but  she  received  him 
coldly,  and  kept  him  at  a  distance. 

"  I  have  been  waiting  for  you,"  she  said.  "  I  have 
come  to  thank  you  for  every  good  thing  you  have  done 
for  me,  and  to  assure  you  that  I  shall  never  forget  it. 


102  The  Countess  Cose] 

But  at  the  same  time,  I  have  to  tell  you  that  our 
marriage,  which  is  not  based  on  mutual  sympathy,  and 
therefore  cannot  give  us  any  guarantee  of  happiness, 
must  come  to  an  end.  We  must  be  separated.  You 
know  I  always  speak  frankly.  The  King  has  been 
good  enough  to  assure  me  of  his  favour — I  cannot 
refuse  it.  Moreover,  I  love  him,  and  am  determined 
to  obey  him.  But  I  cannot  be  false  to  you.  I  am 
come,  therefore,  to  ask  you  for  a  divorce  ;  this  will  save 
the  honour  of  your  name.  We  cannot  act  otherwise. 
Should  you  consent  to  a  divorce,  you  may  rest  assured 
of  my  gratitude  ;  I  will  also  endeavour  to  assist  you  in 
everything.  Should  you,  on  the  contrary,  prefer  to 
resist  my  wish,  it  will  not  in  anywise  alter  my 
determination,  but  it  will  cause  me  to  forget  my 
gratitude  towards  you,  and  to  remember  you  only  as  a 
hindrance  to  my  happiness." 

From  the  first  words  of  his  wife's  artful  and  formal 
speech,  Hoym  had  guessed  everything.  He  drew 
back  as  though  struck  by  a  thunderbolt.  He  had  not 
suspected  that  matters  had  gone  so  far  as  that.  His 
pale  face  became  crimson.  Severaltimes  he  would  have 
interrupted  her,  but  the  magnetic  gaze  that  Anna  fixed 
upon  him  kept  him  silent  until  her  speech  was  ended. 
The  indifference  and  self-possession  with  which  she 
spoke  filled  Hoym  with  indignation. 

By  the  time  she  had  finished  speaking,  his  anger 
was  so  great  that  he  was  unable  to  utter  a  word. 

"  Madam,"  shouted  he  at  length,  "  you  reward  me 
nicely  for  having  drawn  you  from  your  obscure  corner. 
You  will  leave  home  and  husband  to  depend  on 
the  favour  of  a  most  frivolous  man." 


The  Countess  Cosel  103 

But  Anna  did  not  allow  him  to  proceed  with  his 
speech. 

"  Enough  of  this  !  "  she  exclaimed.  "  I  know  all  that 
you  are  going  to  say  ;  I  know  also  what  I  intend  doing. 
The  care  for  my  future  fate  you  can  leave  to  me. 
Nothing  will  alter  my  determination.  I  only  ask  you 
to  choose  and  tell  me  whether,  or  no,  you  will  consent 
to  the  divorce.  Are  we  to  be  friends  or  enemies? 
Yes  or  no  ?  " 

Hoym  was  one  of  the  most  licentious  of  the 
courtiers ;  his  relations  with  his  wife  were  of  the 
worst,  but  the  moment  he  realized  that  he  was  to  lose 
her  for  ever,  grief,  jealousy,  and  anger  overwhelmed 
him  to  such  a  degree  that  he  was  unable  to  speak. 

As  was  his  custom  when  enraged,  he  began  to  tear 
his  wig,  and  rush  to  and  fro  across  the  room,  over- 
throwing the  chairs  as  he  went.  He  clenched  his 
hands,  stood  for  a  few  moments  at  a  window,  gazing 
into  the  street  beneath,  then  he  rushed  threateningly 
towards  his  wife,  and  vainly  endeavoured  to  speak. 
Then  again  he  hurried  from  her.  In  short,  he  looked 
just  like  a  madman  who  does  not  know  what  he 
is  doing. 

But  all  this  outburst  of  fury  made  not  the  least 
impression  on  Anna.  She  only  waited  quietly,  looking 
at  him  ironically.  At  length,  being  unable  to  obtain 
an  answer,  she  said,  coldly, — 

"  I  see  you  cannot  decide  between  peace  and  war. 
I  would  only  remind  you  that  war  with  me  and  the 
King  would  be  a  trifle  dangerous." 

She  left  the  room  as  she  spoke. 

Hoym   still   continued  his  mad  rushes  to   and  fro. 


104  The  Countess  Cosel 

He  tore  his  clothes,  he  sat  down,  rose  again,  and  gave 
way  to  every  possible  action  of  despair.  And  in  this 
he  continued  until  he  was  interrupted  by  the  entrance 
of  Vitzthum. 

"  Hoym  !  "  exclaimed  his  visitor,  "  what  is  the 
matter?" 

"You  know  that  better  than  I  do.  It  is  you, 
my  dearest  friends,  who  have  prepared  this  surprise 
for  me.  Anna  leaves  me  !  The  King  requires 
her !  Why  did  she  ever  marry  me  ?  Why  does 
she  wish  to  make  me  the  laughing-stock  of  the 
people  ? " 

Vitzthum  let  him  have  his  storm  out,  then  he  spoke. 

"  Listen,  Hoym,"  said  he.  "  I  can  understand  that 
you  would  regret  parting  with  the  beautiful  Anna, 
but  you  know  well  that  she  never  loved  you,  and  you 
led  her  such  a  life,  that  I  doubt  if  you  really  loved  her. 
Thus,  then,  there  can  be  no  question  of  love  in  the 
matter.  Let  .us  now  talk  calmly  ;  I  have  come  here 
by  the  King's  command." 

"And  what,  pray,  does  His  Majesty  command  ?  " 
inquired  Hoym  sarcastically. 

"  He  wishes  your  consent  to  the  divorce,  in  return 
for  which  he  promises  you  his  favour,"  replied 
Vitzthum.  "  If  you  do  not  consent,  I  pity  you, 
my  dear  fellow,  but  I  must  warn  you  that  you  expose 
yourself  to  great  danger.  You  cannot  fight  against 
the  King.  The  slightest  wrong  done  to  the  Countess 
will  be  regarded  as  Ihe  majestatis" 

"  But  why  do  you  wish  for  my  consent  ?  "  exclaimed 
Hoym.  "  The  King  can  do  anything  he  chooses 
without  that.  The  Consistory  will  obey  him.  Let 


The  Countess  Cosel  105 

him  take  from  me  my  most  precious  possession,  but  he 
must  not  ask  me  to  thank  him  for  so  doing." 

Vitzthum  smiled. 

"  It  is  a  proof  of  his  favour,  that  he  asks  your 
permission  to  do  a  thing  which  he  can  as  easily 
do  without  it.  From  this  you  should  see  that  he 
desires  to  retain  you  in  your  present  position." 

"  Only  because  he  has  need  of  me,"  muttered 
Hoym. 

Vitzthum  sat  down  on  the  sofa. 

"  Dear  Count,  think  it  well  over ;  when  I  leave  the 
room  it  will  be  too  late." 

Again  Hoym  rushed  wildly  about  the  room,  over- 
throwing everything  that  came  in  his  way.  At  length, 
throwing  himself  down  on  a  chair,  he  began  to  laugh  ; 
but  it  was  a  laugh  full  of  bitterness. 

"  Hoym,  the  King  is  awaiting  your  decision,"  said 
Vitzthum. 

"It  is  mere  irony  to  ask  a  man  whom  you  have 
stripped  of  his  clothes,  for  permission  to  keep  them, 
and  threaten  him  with  a  club  should  he  refuse.  There- 
fore, my  dear  brother-in-law,  you  will  tell  His 
Majesty  that  I  am  very  grateful  to  him  for  taking  the 
burden  of  that  woman  from  me.  Tell  him  I  consent, 
that  I  am  glad,  happy,  merry,  that  I  kiss  His 
Majesty's  hand.  It  is  a  great  honour  to  be  able 
to  offer  the  King  a  half- eaten  fruit — ha  !  ha  !  ha  !  " 

"  You  had  better  drink  a  glass  of  iced-water,"  said 
Vitzthum,  taking  his  hat. 

He  shook  hands  with  Hoym. 

"  Believe  me,"  said  he,  in  a  whisper,  "  you  have 
come  out  of  this  better  than  any  of  the  others,  I  will 


io6  The  Countess  Cosel 

tell  the    King   you    consent.     You   will  cool  off  after 
a  time." 

The  King  was  eagerly  awaiting  the  answer,  but, 
being  impatient,  he  had  ordered  that  he  should  be 
carried  to  Hoym's  palace,  where  he  entered  Anna's 
apartments.  Just  as  Vitzthum  was  preparing  to  go  to 
the  castle,  he  was  informed  that  the  King  was  waiting 
for  him,  only  a  few  paces  away.  From  his  countenance, 
and  the  smile  with  which  he  entered  His  Majesty's 
presence,  Augustus  guessed  immediately  that  Hoym 
would  not  oppose  his  wishes.  But  the  beautiful  Anna, 
addressing  the  ambassador,  said,— 

"  You  were  more  fortunate  than  I  was." 

"  No  one  could  be  more  fortunate  than  you  are," 
replied  Vitzthum,  bowing,  "  but  I  was  more  patient. 
I  allowed  Hoym  to  work  off  his  excitement,  after  that 
he  consented." 

The  light  of  joy  shone  in  Anna's  black  eyes. 

"  You  bring  me  freedom  and  happiness !  "  she  cried. 
"  How  can  I  ever  repay  you  ?  " 

A  box  lay  on  the  table;  this  she  seized  and  handed 
it  to  Vitzthum. 

The  King  at  once  approached  to  see  what  it 
contained.  In  it  was  Anna's  miniature. 
,  "Ah!"  exclaimed  he,  "that  is  too  great  a  reward 
for  you,  Vitzthum.  I  confiscate  it  in  the  name  of 
the  King,  and  in  exchange  I  will  give  you  twenty 
thousand  thalers." 

Anna  threw  herself  on  the  King's  breast. 

The  day  following,  the  Consistory  granted  the 
divorce,  and  on  the  third  day  this  was,  by  Anna's  wish, 
placarded  on  all  the  public  buildings. 


The  Countess  Cosel  107 

The  same  day,  Anna  left  her  husband's  house  and 
took  up  her  abode  in  a  mansion  situated  close  to  the 
palace,  to  which  it  was  joined  by  means  of  a  covered 
gallery,  which  had  been  constructed  in  a  few  hours. 

The  news  spread  like  wild-fire  throughout  the  city. 

Countess  Hoym  had  abandoned  her  husband's 
name,  and  had  taken  the  title  of  Cosel,  from  an  estate 
that  Augustus  had  presented  to  her.  He  also  intended 
to  obtain  the  title  of  Countess  for  her  from  the 
Emperor  Joseph,  and,  instead  of  the  house  she  now 
occupied,  she  was  to  have  a  palace  built  for  her  similar 
to  that  described  in  the  Arabian  Nights. 

Never  for  a  long  time  had  any  of  his  favourites 
taken  such  a  hold  on  the  King's  mind,  heart,  and 
passion.  He  passed  whole  days  in  her  company,  and 
was  invisible  to  every  one — indeed  the  whole  world 
was  forgotten  by  him. 

Princess  Teschen,  towards  whom,  up  to  the  last 
moment,  the  King  had  shown  great  tenderness,  was 
the  first  to  learn  what  had  occurred.  The  divorce,  the 
lodging  near  the  castle,  were  sure  proofs  that  her  reign 
was  ended.  The  King  ceased  visiting  her,  yet  she 
still  retained  her  liberty,  and  did  not  fall  into  disgrace. 

Augustus  was  obliged  to  treat  her  kindly  through 
fear  of  the  Cardinal  Radziejewski,  over  whom  the 
Princess  had  considerable  influence,  for  that  prelate 
could  cause  the  King  considerable  annoyance.  The 
spies  employed  by  Vitzthum  could  gain  no  information 
as  to  how  the  Princess  intended  to  act.  They  tried 
to  discover  her  secrets  through  her  sister,  Baroness 
Glasenapp,  but  the  Princess  was  silent,  and  spent  her 
time  weeping.  No  one  knew  whether  she  was  going 


io8  The  Countess  Cosel 

to  remain  in  Dresden,  to  retire  to  her  estates  of 
Hoyerswerde,  or  to  return  to  Poland.  In  her  palace 
no  preparations  for  departure  were  visible,  all  remained 
the  same  as  it  had  ever  been,  except  that  the  visitors 
were  less  numerous.  Those  servants  who  still 
remained  faithful  to  the  Princess  were  suspected  of 
spying,  therefore  every  one  was  silent,  and  evenings 
were  sad. 

Prince  Ludwig  of  Wiirtemburg  alone  visited  her 
more  frequently  and  stayed  longer. 

The  court  intrigues  that  had  been  directed  towards 
the  overthrow  of  Princess  Teschen  and  the  instalment 
in  her  place  of  Lady  Cosel  were,  after  the  latter's 
victory,  turned  in  another  direction. 

Furstenberg,  who,  at  the  commencement  of  the 
intrigue,  had  been  employed  by  the  King  as  his  inter- 
mediary, was  now  compelled  to  yield  his  place  to 
Vitzthum.  The  rivalry  of  these  two  parties  began  in 
the  court  of  Augustus  II.,  who  always  took  the  greatest 
possible  care  to  prevent  the  persons  surrounding  him 
from  living  peaceably  together.  He  excited  one 
against  another,  favouring  now  this  person,  now  that, 
and  giving  each  to  understand  that  the  other  was  his 
enemy.  The  mere  sight  of  angry  faces  gave  him  great 
pleasure.  In  consequence  of  his  mischief-making,  one 
of  his  courtiers  accused  the  other,  and  thus  the  King 
was  made  aware  of  all  abuses. 

Vitzthum  was  Hoym's  brother-in-law.  His  family 
came  from  Thuringia,  but  for  a  long  time  it  had  been 
employed  in  the  service  of  the  Kings  of  Saxony. 
Grand  Falconer  Count  Frederyk  Vitzthum  von 
Hckstadt  was  now  about  thirty  ;  he  had  been  at  court 


The  Countess  Cosel  109 

from  the  time  he  was  a  page,  and  had  been  Augustus' 
friend  since  childhood.  He  always  travelled  with  him, 
and  after  the  downfall  of  the  great  Chancellor,  Beich- 
ling,  in  1703,  he  had  obtained  for  himself  the  rank  of 
Grand  Falconer. 

The  King  was  fonder  of  Vitzthum  than  of  the  others, 
perhaps  because  he  was  not  afraid  of  him.  Vitzthum 
was  not  a  genius  ;  and  then,  too,  he  was  always  affable, 
polite,  serviceable,  a  perfect  courtier,  and  a  very  good- 
looking  man.  He  mingled  in  no  intrigues,  he  had  no 
ambition,  and  he  served  the  King  faithfully. 

Besides  and  behind  Vitzthum,  stood  his  wife, 
Hoym's  sister,  one  of  the  cleverest  intriguantes  of  the 
court,  at  which  the  women  played  almost  as  important 
a  part  as  the  men.  Countess  Vitzthum  was  still  very 
pretty.  She  was  tall,  as  were  the  majority  of  the 
ladies  of  the  Saxon  aristocracy.  She  had  a  fresh 
complexion,  sapphire-blue  eyes,  a  nose  slightly  re- 
trousse, and  she  was  so  merry  that  she  could  be  recog- 
nized from  afar  by  her  laugh.  She  played  with  the 
affairs  of  the  court  as  one  plays  some  game  ;  she  spied 
for  the  sake  of  spying,  she  listened  at  doors,  carried 
gossip,  set  snares,  kindled  passions,  excited  quarrels, 
reconciled  enemies ;  and  besides  all  this,  she  managed 
her  house  and  her  husband's  affairs  admirably  ;  with- 
out her,  money  would  often  have  been  lacking.  Like 
her  husband,  she  had  a  passion  for  gambling,  but  she 
gambled  carefully  and  had  good  luck.  She  acquired 
estates,  and  pushed  her  husband,  for  whom,  as  he  had 
no  ambition,  she  was  forced  to  be  ambitious. 

The  Vitzthums  did  not  belong  to  the  most  powerful 
party  among  the  King's  favourites  ;  apparently  they 


no  The  Countess  Cosel 

stood  aside  and  lower  in  the  scale  than  Flemming, 
Fiirstenberg,  Plug,  and  others,  yet  notwithstanding 
this,  they  were  acquainted  with  every  secret,  influenced 
the  King  as  well  as  the  courtiers,  and  could  be  very 
dangerous  foes.  At  the  commencement  of  Cosel's 
reign,  they  took  up  a  position  that  led  her  to  suppose 
that  they  would  share  her  likes  and  dislikes. 

A  few  days  after  Cosel  had  taken  possession  of  the 
house  near  the  castle,  the  whole  court  felt  that  the  new 
Queen  would  not  be  so  weak,  so  inclined  to  weep  and 
faint,  as  Princess  Teschen  had  been.  New  life  ani- 
mated every  one.  The  proud  and  beauteous  lady 
considered  herself  as  the  King's  second  wife,  and  acted 
accordingly. 

Augustus  himself  was  only  her  most  obedient 
admirer. 


CHAPTER   VIII. 

THE  court  of  Augustus  II.  was  not  lacking  in  droll 
and  original  figures,  whose  business  it  was  to  amuse 
the  King. 

Every  morning  from  the  Old  City  there  came  on 
horseback  Joseph  Frolich,  the  fool,  known^to  "every 
one,  from  the  street  urchins  to  the  ministers  of  state. 
Once,  when  Augustus  had  been  in  a  very  good 
humour,  he  had  even  ordered  a  medal  to  be  struck  in 
his  honour,  bearing  this  inscription  :  Semper  Frolick, 
nunquaui  Traurig,  Frolich  was  so  accustomed  to 
laugh  as  a  matter  of  duty  that  he  made  others  laugh 
and  laughed  himself  from  morning  till  night. 

Frolich  was  small,  round,  and  pink,  and  always 
dressed  in  a  swallow-tail  coat,  of  which,  thanks  to  the 
munificence  of  the  King,  he  had  ninety-nine.  He 
wore  a  tall,  pointed  hat,  ornamented  with  a  feather. 
Instead  of  a  chamberlain's  key,  he  carried  a  large 
silver  vase  on  his  back  similar  in  form  to  a  key,  but  as 
this  was  hollow  it  served  as  a  drinking-cup,  and  from 
it  Frolich  was  obliged  to  drink  .whenever  the  King 
ordered  him  to  be  present  at  his  drinking  parties. 

As  a  fool,  he  would  perhaps  have  wearied  the  King 
by  his  monotonous  gaiety  had  he  not  had  such  a 
contrast  in  the  melancholy  role  played  by  Baron 


ii2  The  Countess  Cosel 

Schmeidel.  Schmeidel  and  Frolich,  as  Heraclites  and 
Democritus,  continually  quarrelling,  amused  both 
Augustus  and  his  court.  When  these  two  were 
exhausted,  there  were  secondary  fools,  Saumagen  and 
Leppert,  to  replace  them.  If  to  these  we  add  the 
giant,  Cojanus  ;  twelve  dwarfs,  with  the  famous  Hante 
and  Traum  at  their  head  ;  and  a  fair  number  of  negroes 
and  albinos,  we  shall  have  some  idea  of  the  crowd 
whose  sole  duty  it  was  to  amuse  their  sovereign. 

Frolich,  the  fool,  was  an  intelligent  and  not  a  bad 
man.  He  lived  quietly  and  saved  his  money,  and 
very  likely  laughed  in  his  sleeve  at  those  who  laughed 
at  him.  Every  morning  Frolich,  dressed  in  his  curious 
coat  and  hat,  rode  to  the  castle,  from  whence  he 
returned,  frequently  very  late  at  night,  to  his  own 
house,  called  Narrenhaus,  which  was  situated  close  to 
the  bridge.  It  was  very  seldom  that  any  one  called 
on  him,  therefore  Fraulein  Lote,  his  elderly  house- 
keeper, was  greatly  astonished  when,  very  early  one 
morning,  she  heard  a  knock  at  the  door. 

The  fool  was  not  yet  dressed,  neither  was  his  horse 
ready,  and  the  knock  frightened  him,  for  he  feared  that 
some  capricious  fancy  had  seized  the  King  and  induced 
him  to  send  after  him.  Fraulein  Lote  was  of  the  same 
opinion  when,  on  peeping  through  the  window,  she 
perceived  a  tall  young  man  in  the  court  livery  standing 
on  the  threshold. 

After  having  glanced  at  him,  Lote  inquired  what  he 
wanted. 

"  I  should  like  to  say  a  few  words  to  Frolich,"  said 
the  new-comer. 

"  Is  it  from  the  King?" 


The  Countess  Cose!  113 

There  was  no  answer ;  but  as  secret  messengers 
were  by  no  means  uncommon,  Lote  did  not  dare  to 
refuse  him  admittance,  so,  opening  the  door,  she 
ushered  him  into  the  room  where  the  fool  was 
dressing.  Frolich  turned  towards  the  stranger  as  he 
entered,  and,  immediately  assuming  his  role,  saluted 
him  with  exaggerated  politeness,  and,  bending  half- 
double,  inquired,— 

"  What  can  we  do  for  your'  Excellency  ?  " 

"Mr.  Frolich,"  said  the  stranger  modestly,  "  do  not 
joke  at  a  poor  man  ;  you  may  rather  be  excellency 
than  me." 

"What?"  said  Frolich,  "I  before  you?  Was  it 
the  King  that  sent  you  with  such  a  joke  ?  " 

"  No  ;  I  am  come  on  my  o\vn  account,  and  I  beg 
you  for  a  moment's  conversation." 

"An  audience,  eh?"  said  the  fool,  looking  impor- 
tant. "  Donnerwetter  !  Have  I  become  a  minister? 
But  at  our  Court  everything  is  possible.  The  ministers 
like  each  other  so  well  that  soon  none  of  them  will 
remain.  Then  your  turn  and  mine  will  come  ;  only  I 
must  be  the  Secretary  to  the  Treasury." 

Heedless  of  this  buffoonery,  the  new-comer  remained 
sorrowful. 

"Well,  I  will  grant  you  a  moment's  conversation," 
continued  the  fool,  seating  himself  in  an  arm-chair  and 
taking  the  pose  of  a  person  of  great  importance.  Yet 
still  the  stranger  did  not  smile. 

"Mr.  Frolich,"  said  he,  "you  will  be  surprised 
when  you  learn  that  I  come  to  you  on  a  very  serious 
matter." 

"  Then  you  have  not  entered  the  proper  door/' 

i 


ii4  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  You  are  mistaken.  I  see  you  every  day  at  Court, 
and  I  know  from  your  face  that  you  are  a  very  good- 
hearted  man." 

"  My  dear  man,  I  am  sure  you  wish  to  borrow  some 
money,"  interrupted  the  fool,  "  but  I  must  tell  you  at 
once  that  it  is  useless.  I  give  everything — advice, 
imiles,  bows,  but  not  money !  I  haven't  any ;  the 
King  has  no  money,  so  how  could  I  get  any  ?  " 

"  I  did  not  dream  of  asking  you  for  money." 

"  Ah  !"  breathed  the  fool,  "  then  what  the  deuce  do 
you  want  from  me  ? " 

"  I  want  to  ask  your  protection." 

"  The  idea  !  The  protection  of  a  fool !  I  see  you 
wear  the  Court  livery,  but  you  have  a  foreign  accent. 
Who  are  you  ?  " 

"  I  am  a  Pole;  my  name  is  Raymond  Zaklika." 

"A  Pole,  then  a  nobleman,  that's  understood,"  said 
the  fool ;  "  be  seated,  I  respect  the  nobility,  and  as  I 
am  a  burgher,  I  shall  stand." 

"Don't  joke,  Mr.  Frolich  !  " 

"  I  should  swallow  my  own  tongue,  if  I  didn't  joke. 
But  we  have  not  much  time,  so  tell  me  what  you 
want." 

For  a  few  moments  the  youth  was  unable  to  speak ; 
the  good  humour  of  the  fool  evidently  disconcerted 
him. 

"  Permit  me  first  to  tell  you  a  little  about  myself," 
said  he  at  length. 

"  Only  a  little  ?  willingly." 

"  I  came  to  the  Court  by  a  mere  chance.  I  am 
sure  you  must  have  heard  of  me.  Unfortunately  for 
me,  I  can  break  horseshoes  and  cups  as  well  as  the 


The  Countess  Cosel  115 

King  does.  For  that  I  have  been  ordered  to  remain 
at  the  Court." 

"  I  remember  now,"  laughed  the  fool,  "  and  I  do  not 
envy  you  in  the  least.  Who  was  so  simple  as  to  advise 
you  to  rival  the  King?" 

"  Since  I  have  been  at  the  Court  the  life  there  has 
disgusted  me  ;  every  one  avoids  me ;  I  haven't  a 
friend,  a  protector;  I  have  no  one!'' 

"  But  to  wish  to  choose  me  as  a  friend  and  protector, 
is  as  good  an  idea  as  the  breaking  the  horseshoes  was. 
Man,  if  I  could  break  anvils,  I  would  not  break  a  straw, 
for  fear  of  exciting  the  jealousy  of  others  ;  I  should  not 
like  to  be  in  your  place." 

"That  is  why  I  thought  that  at  least  Frolich  would 
pity  me." 

The  old  fool's  eyes  dilated,  then  suddenly  his  face 
grew  stern  and  sad,  and  he  folded  his  arms  across  his 
breast  :  then,  advancing  towards  Zaklika,  he  took  hold 
of  his  hand,  and  began  to  feel  his  pulse,  as  though  he 
had  been  a  doctor. 

"I  am  afraid  you  have  lost  your  common  sense," 
said  he  quietly. 

"  I  shouldn't  be  surprised,"  said  the  youth,  smiling. 

The  fool's  face  brightened  again,  as  though  from 
habit. 

"  What  is  the  matter  in  question  ? "  he  inquired. 

"  I     wish    to    get    discharged     from     the    King's 


service." 


"  That's  very  easily  done,"  said  the  fool.  "  Do  some 
stupid  thing,  then  they  will  build  a  scaffold  in  the  new 
market,  and  you  will  be  hanged." 

''  There's  plenty  of  time  for  that,"  replied  Zaklika. 


n6  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  What  do  you  propose  doing,  should  they  discharge 
you  ?  Are  you  going  to  return  to  your  own  country, 
and  wrestle  with  the  bear  ?  " 

"  No,  I  shall  remain  at  Dresden." 

"  Are  you  in  love  with  a  pretty  girl  ?  " 

The  youth  blushed. 

"  No,"  replied  he,  "  I  shall  give  fencing  and  riding 
lessons,  or  I  might  enter  the.  military  service." 

"  Do  they  not  give  you  enough  to  eat  at  the 
Court?" 

"  We  have  plenty." 

"  Do  they  not  pay  you  ?  " 

"  They  do." 

"  Then  why  don't  you  like  your  position  ? " 

The  youth  looked  confused. 

"  I   have  nothing  to  do,"  said  he,  "  and  it  worries 


me." 


"  It's  strange  !  "  said  the  fool,  "  you  have  plenty  of 
bread,  and  you  are  searching  for  misery.  But  I  don't 
see  how  I  could  be  useful  to  you.'' 

"Very  easily.  I  very  frequently  stand  by  the  door ; 
by  some  witty  saying  you  could  draw  the  King's 
attention  towards  me,  and  when  he  is  in  a  good 
humour  he  has  different  fancies." 

"  Suppose  he  has  a  fancy  to  shoot  you  ?  " 

"  You  would  protect  me." 

"  Donnerwetter  /"  exclaimed  the  fool,  "  for  the  first 
time  in  my  life  I  see  that  I  am  a  man  of  importance, 
for  people  come  to  ask  me  for  protection.  You  have 
opened  my  eyes.  Out  of  pure  gratitude  I  should 
like  to  do  something  for  you  !  Who  knows !  They 
say  that  Kyan  is  to  be  appointed  commandant  of 


The  Countess  Cosel  1 1 7 

Konigstein,  then  I  could  at  least  become  Court 
preacher  !  I  grow  ambitious  !  " 

And  having  seated  himself  again  in  an  arm-chair,  he 
began  to  laugh,  at  the  same  time  looking  pityingly  on 
the  young  man. 

"  The  end  of  the  world  !  Donnenvetter  !  A  Polish 
noble  asks  a  fool  for  protection,  and  the  Swedes,  who 
eat  herrings,  beat  the  Saxons." 

The  fool  saluted,  in  the  fashion  of  a  minister  closing 
an  interview.  Zaklika  took  the  hint,  and  left  the 
room. 

It  was  a  strange  idea  to  seek  help  from  a  fool,  but 
his  strong  love  for  Countess  Hoym  had  put  it  into  his 
head.  He  wished  to  enter  the  service  of  the  woman, 
to  look  at  whom  was  his  greatest  bliss.  He  desired 
nothing  further  than  to  look  at  his  goddess.  He  never 
dreamt  of  anything  else.  He  wished  to  be  her  guard, 
her  unknown  defender ;  he  guessed  that  she  must  have 
many  enemies,  he  feared  for  her  safety,  and  he  longed 
to  lay  down  his  life  in  her  service.  The  youth  had  a 
strange  disposition  ;  although  apparently  slow,  he  had 
an  iron  will.  He  had  determined  to  gain  a  place 
nearer  that  lovely  woman,  and  it  was  for  her  sake 
that  he  had  gone  to  ask  protection  of  the  fool,  and 
for  her  sake  he  was  ready  to  bear  still  greater  humilia- 
tion. 

Cosel,  intoxicated  by  her  love  for  the  beautiful 
Augustus,  had  not  forgotten  the  boy  who,  when  she 
was  at  Laubegast,  used  to  stand  up  to  his  neck  in  the 
water  in  order  to  catch  a  glimpse  of  her.  She  smiled 
at  the  reminiscence,  about  which  she  had  never  said  a 
word  to  any  one.  He  excited  her  curiosity,  that  was 


u8  The  Countess  Cosel 

all,  and  she  frequently  looked  after  him  as  he  stood 
among  the  crowd. 

Augustus'  love  for  the  beautiful  Lady  Cosel  did  not 
cause  him  to  give  up  drinking  with  his  friends.  For 
many  reasons  this  became  more  necessary  to  him. 
Amidst  his  drunken  courtiers  he  could  sow  discord, 
which  he  used  as  a  tool  to  support  his  own  power. 

That  day  was  a  day  of  revelry  in  the  castle. 
Augustus  was  in  an  excellent  humour,  and  was 
planning  how  he  might  best  surround  his  favourite  with 
entertainments,  magnificence,  and  luxury. 

Hoym,  who  still  retained  his  position  as  Secretary 
to  the  Treasury,  and  whose  tears  for  the  loss  of  his 
wife  the  King  had  dried  by  a  present  of  fifty  thousand 
thalers,  was  again  among  those  who  came  to  drink 
with  the  King.  Hoym  was  more  necessary  to 
Augustus  than  any  of  the  others,  for  money  was 
necessary  to  him,  and  the  secretary  knew  how  to 
provide  it. 

But  the  most  clever  methods  of  obtaining  it  had  been 
almost  exhausted,  and  now  they  would  be  obliged  to 
employ  some  extraordinary  means  by  which  they  might 
obtain  the  required  gold.  Augustus,  like  many  of  the 
rulers  of  his  day,  believed  in  alchemy.  They  did  not 
doubt  but  that  there  existed  some  marvellous  mixture 
which  could  change  any  metal  into  the  gold  that  was 
so  necessary  to  happiness. 

At  times  no  other  subject  was  mentioned  at  Court 
than  how  gold  could  be  made.  Every  one  had  a 
laboratory.  Chancellor  Beichling  would  not  have  been 
sent  to  Konigstein  had  not  Fiirstenberg  persuaded 
the  King  that  he  could  find  a  man  capable  of  making 


The  Countess  Cosel  119 

gold,  and  much  more  gold  than  Beichling  could  squeeze 
out  of  the  country. 

The  savant  on  whom  Flirstenberg  depended  was  a 
simple  apothecary,  by  name  Johan  Friedrich  Bottiger, 
born  at  Schleiz,  in  Saxony.  He  had  been  manufactur- 
ing a  gold-making  mixture  in  Berlin,  and  Frederick  I. 
had  wished  to  keep  him  for  himself,  but  Bottiger 
succeeded  in  making  his  escape,  and  came  to  Saxony, 
where  he  received  a  warm  welcome,  and  was  shut  up 
in  a  castle  and  ordered  to  make  gold  for  King 
Augustus  II. 

Filrstenberg  was  working  with  him,  and  the  King 
firmly  believed  that  any  day  they  might  produce  as 
much  gold  as  they  wanted. 

They  flattered  Bottiger,  they  surrounded  him  with 
luxury,  but  they  kept  him  securely  guarded.  Years 
passed  by,  and  yet  the  apothecary  had  not  been  succes- 
ful  in  making  his  mixture.  They  sent  the  King  many 
things  with  which  to  make  gold,  but  in  every  case  it 
was  necessary  before  using  them  to  prepare  oneself  by 
prayer,  and  to  have  a  pure  heart.  Augustus  prayed, 
confessed,  sat  by  the  crucible,  but  he  could  not  make 
gold.  Fortunately  a  dog  overturned  the  mercury  sent 
by  Bottiger,  and  they  were  obliged  to  use  other,  and 
so  the  ill-success  of  the  work  was  attributed  to  the 
dog.  Bottiger  was  kept  in  constant  confinement  in 
Fiirstenberg's  castle,  and,  despite  all  the  comforts 
with  which  he  was  surrounded,  he  nearly  went  mad, 
but  still  he  did  not  succeed  in  making  gold.  Bottiger 
used  to  give  balls  and  dinners  in  his  prison,  and  during 
the  past  few  years  had  cost  the  King  forty  thousand 
thalers, 


120  The  Countess  Cosel 

When  Lady  Cosel  succeeded  Princess  Teschen  the 
famous  alchemist  was  confined  in  a  tower  in  the  castle, 
where  he  busied  himself  preparing  prescriptions  for 
making  gold.  Great  was  the  expectation  of  the  Court 
and  none  doubted  that  Bottiger  would  succeed  at 
last. 

The  evening  of  the  day  on  which  Zaklika  sought 
the  protection  of  the  fool  the  King,  accompanied  by 
Vitzthum,  Fiirstenberg,  and  the  Countesses  Reuss  and 
Vitzthum,  supped  with  Lady  Cosel. 

After  supper,  Frolich,  being  called  to  entertain  the 
company,  imitated  the  alchemist,  and  brought  in  some 
dirt  in  a  crucible.  Such  a  joke  caused  Augustus  to 
look  gloomy.  Cosel,  who  had  heard  something  about 
Bottiger,  began  to  inquire  about  him  in  a  whisper. 
The  King  was  unwilling  to  speak  of  the  matter,  but 
to  please  his  favourite  he  told  her  all  about  the 
alchemist,  what  a  valuable  man  he  was,  and  how  they 
always  kept  watch  over  him,  lest  he  should  escape. 

"  Your  Majesty,"  said  Frolich,  "  so  long  as  he  is 
not  watched  by  a  very  strong  man,  the  possibility  is 
that  he  will  escape.  Your  Majesty  alone  would  be 
a  proper  guard  for  him,  or  a  man  equally  strong— 
but  such  an  one  it  would  be  impossible  to  find,  did  we 
search  throughout  the  whole  world." 

"There  you  are  mistaken,"  said  Augustus  ;  "  I  have 
at  my  Court  a  man  as  strong  as  myself." 

"  I  have  never  heard  of  him." 

It  was  in  this  way  that  Augustus  was  reminded  of 
Zaklika. 

"  And  what  does  this  Hercules  look  like  ?  "  inquired 
Cosel. 


The  Countess  Cosel  121 

"Summon  him,"  commanded  the  King. 

Poor  Raymond,  directly  he  entered  the  King's 
presence,  made  use  of  the  opportunity  to  ask  for  his 
discharge,  but  Augustus  shook  his  head. 

"  I  cannot  discharge  you,'1  said  he,  "for  I  have  need 
of  your  services.  I  have  a  treasure  which  I  intend  to 
trust  to  your  strength  and  honesty.  From  this  moment 
you  belong  to  the  court  of  Madame  Cosel ;  you  will 
watch  over  her  safety,  and  risk  your  life  for  her  if 
necessary." 

Zaklika  could  scarcely  believe  his  ears  ;  he  blushed, 
and  said  nothing.  Chance  had  served  him  better  than 
the  fool. 

Madame  Cosel  was  much  surprised,  and  she  also 
blushed,  for  she  remembered  her  meetings  with  him  at 
Laubegast.  However,  she  was  careful  not  to  say  a 
word  about  them,  and  so  Zaklika  obtained  the  position 
he  had  so  coveted. 


CHAPTER    IX. 

THE  reign  of  Countess  Cosel  (she  had  already  obtained 
the  title  of  Francis  I.)  promised  to  be  a  long  one. 
Having  obtained  a  written  promise  of  marriage  from 
the  King,  she  considered  herself  a  second  Queen,  and 
as  such  she  acted.  She  was  almost  always  in  Augustus' 
company,  and  she  was  ready  alike  for  a  journey  or  for 
war.  No  peril  caused  her  the  least  alarm. 

Soon  she  knew  his  character,  and  was  able  to 
discern  all  the  threads  of  intrigue.  She  kept  him 
constantly  entertained  by  her  calmness  of  mind  and 
unfailing  gaiety  ;  she  ruled  over  him,  and  gained  fresh 
influence  over  him  every  day. 

It  was  soon  clear  to  every  one  that  Cosel  was 
invincible.  If  the  frivolous  King  forgot  her  for  a  few 
moments,  she  knew  perfectly  how  to  hasten  out  to  meet 
him  and  within  a  few  hours  had  regained  her  former 
influence  over  him.  Her  beauty  seemed  to  increase 
rapidly.  In  vain  did  jealous  women  look  for  some 
change  in  her  appearance,  for  some  weariness  in  her 
manner,  she  bloomed  continually,  as  though  perpetual 
youth  had  been  granted  her. 

The  following  year,  the  King  ordered  a  palace  to  be 
built  for  her,  near  to  the  castle.  This  building  was  a 


The  Countess  Cosel  123 

masterpiece  of  art.  It  was  called  the  Palace  of  the 
Four  Seasons,  for  there  were  different  apartments  for 
the  different  seasons ;  cool  rooms  for  summer,  and 
bright,  warm,  and  sunny  ones  for  winter.  The  former 
were  adorned  with  marble,  the  latter  with  tapestry. 
The  most  costly  and  valuable  articles  that  Europe 
could  supply  in  the  way  of  furniture,  trinkets,  carpets, 
dresses,  &c.,  were  to  be  found  here.  The  army  could 
not  be  paid,  but  the  palace  was  marvellous. 

A  splendid  ball  was  given  as  a  house-warming,  and 
Countess  Cosel,  covered  with  diamonds,  victorious, 
and  looking  like  some  beautiful  goddess,  leaned  on  the 
King's  arm,  whom,  in  secret,  she  called  her  husband. 
Frivolous  Augustus,  although  not  entirely  faithful,  yet 
loved  Cosel  best  of  all.  She  was  indeed  most  bewitch- 
ing, and  foreigners  who  saw  her  at  the  zenith  of  her 
glory  spoke  of  her  with  enthusiasm. 

Cosel  extended  her  influence,  and  made  friends  with 
great  ability,  but  she  could  not  overcome  the  jealousy 
and  fear  of  those  who  had  any  reason  to  be  afraid  of 
her.  In  vain  the  clergy,  scandalized  at  the  King's 
open  attachment  to  her,  began  to  preach  against 
beautiful  Bathsheba,  and  one  day  Gerber,  a  famous 
preacher  of  those  times,  spoke  against  her  so  strongly 
that  there  was  murmuring  in  church. 

Throughout  the  whole  day  nothing  was  spoken  of 
but  Cosel  Bathsheba.  In  the  evening  the  King's 
favourite  was  informed  of  the  attack  that  had  been 
made  on  her  by  the  preacher.  Augustus,  coming  into 
her  apartment,  found  her  weeping, 

"  What  is  the  matter,  my  beautiful  goddess  ?  "  he 
exclaimed,  seizing  her  hands. 


124  The  Countess  Cosel 

"Your  Majesty,  I  beseech  you  for  justice,"  she 
replied,  sobbing.  "  You  say  that  you  love  me,  then 
protect  me  from  public  insult." 

u  What  is  the  matter?"  asked  the  King  uneasily. 

"  I  ask  for  the  punishment  of  Gerber  !  An  example 
must  be  made  of  this  arrogant  priest,  who  does  not 
even  respect  the  crown.  Gerber  said  I  was  Bath- 
sheba." 

Augustus  smiled. 

"  I  am  not  Bathsheba,  I  have  no  wish  to  be  her!  I 
am  your  wife,  my  lord  !  You  must  punish  him,"  cried 
Anna,  kneeling  before  him. 

But  Augustus  only  ansv/ered  kindly, — 

"A  priest  can  say  anything  he  likes  once  a  week, 
and  1  can  do  nothing  to  prevent  him.  Did  he  pro- 
nounce a  single  word  outside  the  church,  I  would 
punish  him.  The  church  shelters  him." 

Gerber  was  not  punished,  but  he  made  no  further 
mention  of  Bathsheba. 

During  those  most  disastrous  years  that  followed,  the 
King's  love  increased.  The  wild  Charles  XII.,  a 
severe  and  merciless  soldier,  with  hair  cut  short,  and 
wearing  enormous  boots  that  reached  higher  than  his 
knees,  persecuted  the  King  covered  in  velvet  and  lace, 
who  skirmished  against  him  clad  in  golden  armour. 

Many  marvels  were,  told  about  him.  Augustus 
listened,  and  was  silent.  The  Saxon  Army  was 
defeated.  Despite  the  exertions  of  Flemming,  Pre- 
bendowski,  and  Dombski,  the  prestige  of  the  most 
magnificent  monarch  in  Europe  was  diminishing  in 
Poland.  Countess  Konigsmark,  a  former  favourite, 
sent  over  a  secret  mission,  but  could  accomplish 


The  Countess  Cosel  125 

nothing.  Charles  XII.  had  no  desire  to  speak  either 
with  her  or  with  any  one  else.  Good  fortune 
abandoned  Augustus  II.  Bottiger  could  not  make 
gold,  Hoym  was  unable  to  supply  it,  and  Cosel  wanted 
millions.  The  people,  not  wishing  to  serve  in  the 
army,  ran  away  and  hid  themselves  in  the  mountains, 
whilst  the  preachers  vehemently  denounced  the  robbery 
of  the  country. 

The  nobility,  although  very  respectful,  resisted 
paying  such  heavy  taxes. 

The  King  was  frequently  in  a  very  bad  humour,  but 
it  never  lasted  long,  for  Cosel  smiled  and  her  lord's 
face  brightened.  Countess  Cosel  had  no  allies,  but 
she  did  not  want  them,  she  felt  she  was  stronger  than 
them  all.  The  courtiers  were  frightened. 

Vitzthum  alone  still  enjoyed  the  favours  of  the 
King  and  his  favourite,  for  he  cared  not  for  politics, 
and  loved  Augustus  like  a  brother. 

The  years  passed  one  after  the  other,  full  of  various 
incidents.  Fortune  was  not  yet  tired  of  persecuting 
this  most  magnificent  of  monarchs.  The  Swedes  were 
victorious,  and  threatened  to  drive  him  from  his 
throne.  Augustus  resisted  as  best  he  could,  grieved, 
and  endeavoured  to  counterbalance  adversity  by 
indulging  in. merry-making. 

But  hunting  parties,  banquets,  balls,  masquerades, 
and  theatres,  all  were  suddenly  interrupted  by  the 
news  that  the  Swedes  had  invaded  Saxony.  Charles 
XII.  had  pursued  the  enemy  into  his  own  country. 
Fear  seized  on  every  one. 

After  the  defeat  at  Frauenstadt  isolated  groups  of 
deserters  returned,  and  these  were  captured  and 


126 

hanged,  or  shot  down,  for  not  having  done  their  duty. 
On  September  ist  Charles  XII.  invaded  Saxony 
at  the  head  of  twenty  thousand  men.  It  was  im- 
possible to  fight  against  them,  so  they  were  obliged 
to  feed  them.  Augustus'  small  army  escaped  to 
Wiirzburgh.  Dresden,  Sizendorf,  Konigstein,  and 
Sonenstein  had  garrisons. 

With  Charles  XII.  came  the  new  King  of  Poland, 
Stanislaus  Leszczynski.  Dresden  was  deserted.  The 
Queen  went  to  her  family  at  Bayreuth,  her  mother  went 
to  Magdeburg,  and  then  to  Denmark. 

Augustus  was  obliged  to  resign  the  crown  of  Poland 
in  favour  of  Stanislaus  Leszczynski,  and  in  1706  a 
treaty  was  signed  at  Altranstadt,  but  the  Swedes  did 
not  leave  Saxony. 

During  the  war,  and  all  the  bloody  horrors  that 
accompanied  it,  Augustus  remained  still  the  same ; 
love  played  the  most  important  part  in  his  life.  He 
lost  kingdoms,  but  he  conquered  hearts.  He  still 
loved  the  Countess  Cosel,  but  whenever  he  was  absent 
from  her,  he  led  a  life  of  dissipation.  Now,  more  than 
ever,  he  required  distraction,  and  his  courtiers,  who 
wished  to  get  rid  of  Cosel,  did  everything  they  could 
to  displace  her  in  his  affections. 

Fiirstenberg,  Countess  Reuss,  and  the  whole  clique 
of  her  enemies,  disappointed  in  their  ambitions,  did 
their  best  to  procure  her  downfall.  But,  confident  in 
her  beauty,  Cosel  cared  nothing  for  their  efforts.  She 
only  smiled  at  their  vain  attempts.  Her  relations 
with  the  King  were  by  this  time  further  strengthened 
by  the  birth  of  a  daughter.  The  proud  woman  per- 
suaded herself  that  Augustus  could  not  find  another 


The  Countess  Cosel  127 

like  her;  she  alone  was  capable  of  participating  in  his 
pleasures,  and,  besides,  she  was  afraid  of  neither 
firing,  mad  riding,  nor  campaigning. 

Yet,  while  she  was  with  him  in  Warsaw,  the  King 
betrayed  her  with  the  daughter  of  a  French  wine 
merchant.  Having  learnt  what  had  occurred,  Anna 
threatened  the  King  that  she  would  shoot  him,  but 
Augustus  only  laughed,  kissed  her  hands,  and  obtained 
forgiveness.  In  truth,  despite  his  side  wooings,  the 
King  loved  Anna  best,  she  alone  was  able  to  amuse 
him,  and  he  was  happiest  when  with  her. 

The  war,  the  devastation  of  the  country,  the  loss  of 
the  Polish  crown,  did  not  diminish  any  portion  of 
Cosel's  luxury.  Amidst  all  these  calamities  the  King 
played  the  role  of  demi-god  with  a  serene  countenance. 
From  the  clatter  of  arms,  Augustus,  after  having  signed 
a  shameful  treaty,  returned  to  Dresden,  and  the 
carriage  had  scarcely  stopped  in  the  courtyard  of  the 
castle,  when  he  sprang  out  and  rushed  to  Cosel's 
apartment. 

At  the  door  of  her  room  he  found  the  faithful  Zak- 
lika,  leaning  against  a  chair,  plunged  in  deep  thought. 
Seeing  the  King,  Raymond  sprang  to  his  feet,  and 
stopped  him. 

"  Your  Majesty,  the  Countess  is  ill ;  she  expects  to 
be  delivered." 

The  King  pushed  him  aside  and  entered. 

There  was  silence  in  all  the  rooms.  At  the  door  of 
the  chamber  Augustus  heard  the  sound  of  a  baby 
crying.  Cosel,  white  as  marble,  exhausted  by  suffering, 
and  unable  to  utter  a  word,  stretched  forth  both  her 
hands  and  pointed  towards  the  infant.  The  King  took 


128  The  Countess  Cosel 

it  in  his  arms,  and  kissed  it.  Then  he  sat  down  beside 
the  bed,  and  covered  his  face  with  his  hands. 

"  Anna,''  said  he,  a  the  world  will  look  on  me 
with  contempt,  and  will  cease  to  love  me.  Good 
fortune  has  deserted  Augustus ;  I  am  conquered, 
defeated ! " 

"  Augustus,"  said  Anna,  sobbing,  "  I  shall  love  you 
more  than  ever,  now  you  are  unhappy." 

"  I  need  such  a  consolation,"  rejoined  the  King 
gloomily.  "  My  enemies  pursue  me,  my  allies  are 
helpless.  Every  one  bows  to  the  victors.  I  am 
indeed  most  miserable." 

Thus  an  hour  passed  ;  the  sick  woman  needed  rest. 
The  King  left  her,  and  was  speedily  surrounded  by 
generals  and  ministers,  Flemming,  Ftirstenberg,  Plug, 
Hoym,  and  others,  who  all  rushed  to  him,  terrified  at 
the  calamities  that  had  fallen  upon  Saxony.  They 
all  looked  at  him,  searching  for  traces  of  grief.  But 
egotism  had  stifled  all  feeling  in  him  ;  so  long  as  he 
himself  was  well,  he  cared  nothing  for  the  rest ;  he  did 
not  even  blush. 

On  the  1 5th  of  December  Augustus  disappeared. 
He,  Plug,  and  one  servant  rode  to  Leipzic  to  see 
Charles  XII.,  for  the  King  was  convinced  that  if  his 
stern  adversary  saw  the  serenity  of  his  face  and  the 
magnificence  of  his  apparel,  he  would  grant  him  better 
terms. 

There  could  not  have  been  a  greater  contrast  than 
that  presented  by  these  two  enemies.  Charles  XII. 
looked  like  a  Puritan,  Augustus  like  a  courtier  of 
Louis  XIV.  They  saluted  with  great  cordiality,  and 
kissed  each  other.  Their  private  conversation  lasted 


The  Countess  Cosel  129 

for  an  hour,  and  by  the  time   it   was   ended  Augustus 
looked  pale  and  exhausted. 

That  day  spent  with  Charles  XII.  weighed  heavily 
on  the  King,  and  he  never  spoke  of  it  to  any  one.  The 
following  day  Charles  returned  his  visit  ;  the  treaty, 
however,  remained  unchanged. 

The  year  that  followed  was  a  very  hard  one  for  the 
King,  who  was  anxious  to  get  rid  of  the  Swedes,  even 
at  a  great  sacrifice.  Augustus  spent  many  weary 
days,  travelling  between  Altranstadt,  Moritzburg,  and 
Leipzic,  trying  to  obtain  the  ratification  of  the  treaty. 

Augustus  and  Charles  met  frequently,  but  the  latter 
never  wished  to  talk  about  politics  ;.  his  secretaries, 
Piper  and  Cedermhiolm,  were  for  that. 

The  treaty  was  eventually  ratified,  but  still  the 
Swedes  did  not  think  of  leaving  the  country. 

Without  counting  the  burden  of  the  enemy  camping 
in  his  country,  the  poor  King  really  had  a  great  deal 
to  do.  He  hunted,  loved,  and  entangled  himself  in 
the  intrigues  of  his  courtiers  in  order  to  forget  his  own 
misery. 

But  from  time  to  time  his  serenity  was  clouded  by 
Cosel's  outbursts  of  jealousy. 

One  day  during  her  confinement,  as  the  King  was 
sitting  by  her  bedside,  a  servant  came  with  the  news 
that  letters  of  importance  had  just  arrived.  Augustus 
wished  to  go  and  read  them,  but  Anna,  ill  and  capri- 
cious, prevailed  on  him  to  stay  with  her,  and  to  allow 
the  Secretary,  Bose,  to  come  to  her  chamber  and  read 
them.  The  King  yielding  to  her  despotic  wish,  Herr 
Bose  was  introduced. 

He  began  by  making   His   Majesty  such  a  profound 


130  The  Countess  Cosel 

bow  that  his  wig  touched  the  floor.  He  paid  the  same 
mark  of  respect  to  the  sick  lady,  who,  wrapped  up  in 
lace,  looked  like  a  pale  pink  rose  among  snow. 

Herr  Bose  whispered  to  the  King,— 

"  Urgent,  from  Warsaw." 

They  both  went  to  the  window.  Cosel,  who  had 
caught  the  word  Warsaw,  looked  at  the  King's  face 
intently,  trying  to  read  there  the  contents  of  the 
papers.  With  great  respect,  Herr  Bose  handed  the 
King  letter  after  letter.  At  first  they  were  all  large, 
and  sealed  with  great  seals.  Cosel  did  not  budge,  but 
remained  with  her  head  resting  quietly  on  both  her 
hajids. 

Suddenly  Bose  whispered  to  the  King,  and  handed 
him  a  small  letter.  The  King  opened  it,  read  it, 
smiled,  blushed,  and  then  glanced  involuntarily  at 
Countess  Cosel. 

Anna  was  sitting  up  in  bed. 

"What  is  in  that  letter  ?  "  she  asked. 

"  State  business/'  replied  the  King. 

"  May  I  see  it  ?  " 

"  No  !  "  said  the  King  coolly,  continuing  his  reading. 

Anna's  face  flushed,  and,  forgetful  of  the  Secretary's 
presence,  she  sprang  out  of  bed,  and  seized  the  letter. 
The  King  grew  confused,  and  looked  at  the   old  man, 
who  was  likewise  greatly  embarrassed.    This  violent, 
scene  so  surprised  him  that  he  knew  not  what  to  do. 

Cosel  devoured  the  letter  with  her  eyes,  and  then 
tore  it  into  fragments.  Her  presentiments  were  cor- 
rect ;  the  letter  was  from  Henriette  Duval,  for  whom 
the  King  had  betrayed  Cosel  at  Warsaw.  She  had 
written  to  her  royal  lover,  telling  him  that  she  had  been 


The  Countess  Cosel  131 

delivered  of  a  daughter,  who  afterwards  became  the 
famous  Countess  Orzelska.  The  mother  ended  the 
letter  by  asking  what  she  was  to  do  with  the  child. 

"  Drown  her  !  "  screamed  Cosel. 

The  King  laughed,  Anna  wept,  Bose  bowed  and 
began  a  retreat  towards  the  door. 

"  Cosel,  for  Heaven's  sake,  be  quiet,"  said  the  King, 
coming  over  to  her. 

"  What  ?  "  she  screamed.  "  You  dare  to  betray  me  ; 
you  to  whom  I  consecrated  everything  !  " 

It  was  not  the  first  scene  of  the  kind,  but  this  time 
it  lasted  longer  than  ever  before.  It  was  in  vain  that 
Augustus  kissed  her  hands,  promising  everything. 

"  What  is  it  you  wish  me  to  do  ? "  he  exclaimed. 

•'  If  you  write  a  single  word  to  that  impertinent 
woman,  I  shall  take  the  post,  and  go  straight  to  War- 
saw. I  will  kill  both  mother  and  child.  I  swear  I 
will ! " 

To  pacify  her,  the  King  promised  everything.  He 
would  have  nothing  further  to  do  with  her ;  would 
forget  her  existence  ;  would  leave  the  unfortunate 
woman  to  the  caprice  of  fortune. 


CHAPTER    X. 


No  one  would  ever  have  known  of  that  scene,  for  it 
was  Bose's  policy  always  to  keep  his  tongue  behind  his 
teeth,  had  not  the  weary  King  gathered  a  few  of  his 
companions  together,  that  he  might  find  distraction  in 
their  conversation.  After  drinking  a  second  and  a 
third  bumper,  the  King  began  to  laugh  and  look 
towards  Fiirstenberg. 

"  What  a  pity,"  said  he,  "  that  you  did  not  bring 
those  papers  this  morning,  instead  of  Bose  ;  perhaps 
you  would  have  made  it  up  with  Cosel  had  you  seen 
her  as  that  old  man  had  the  good  fortune  to  do." 

"  But  the  Countess  has  not  yet  left  her  bed," 
returned  the  Prince. 

"  She  sprang  from  her  bed,  though,  to  tear  the 
letter  poor  Henrietta  had  sent  me,  from  my  hand. 
She  is  so  jealous,  that  I  should  not  be  surprised  if  one 
day  she  were  to  shoot  me." 

Fiirstenberg  looked  round  cautiously,  that  he  might 
be  sure  that  only  those  who  hated  Cosel  were  present, 
then  he  said,— 

"  Your  Majesty,  if  the  Countess  Cosel  is  so  jealous, 
she  should  be  careful  to  give  you  no  cause  for 
jealousy." 


The  Countess  Cosel  133 

The  King  slowly  raised  his  head,  frowned,  thrust 
out  his  lips,  and  replied  coldly,— 

"The  person  who  dares  to  make  such  assertions 
should  weigh  his  words  well,  and  carefully  consider 
the  consequences.  You  must  explain  yourself." 

The  Prince  glanced  round  at  his  companions. 

"  1  am  ready  to  justify  my  words.  All  of  us  here 
present  have  seen  how  the  Countess  conducted  her- 
self during  your  Majesty's  absence.  The  palace 
was  always  full  of  guests  and  admirers,  amongst 
whom  the  Count  Lecherenne  enjoyed  especial  favour. 
Sometimes  he  was  seen  leaving  the  palace  about 
midnight." 

The  King  listened  with  apparent  indifference,  but 
those  who  knew  him  well,  could  see  that  the  dart  had 
stung  him. 

"  It  is  the  voice  of  jealousy  speaking  through  you," 
said  Augustus.  "You  do  not  like  Cosel,  and  you 
would  be  glad  to  see  her  shut  up  in  one  room. 
Naturally  she  longed  for  my  return,  and  required  some 
distraction,  and  you  must  allow  that  Lecherenne  is 
amusing." 

"  Your  Majesty,"  said  the  Prince,  with  well-feigned 
simplicity,  "  I  had  no  intention  to  be  an  informer.  I 
enjoy  your  Majesty's  favour,  and  I  do  not  care  much 
about  that  of  the  Countess.  But,  being  your  Majesty's 
devoted  servant,  I  should  be  deeply  grieved  to  see 
your  great  love  repaid  with  ingratitude." 

Augustus  looked  gloomy.  The  wine  cups  were  full, 
but  no  one  raised  one  to  his  lips  ;  the  conversation 
stopped,  and  the  King  rose. 

Furstenberg   understood  that  he  had  gone  too  far. 


i34  The  Countess  Cosel 

Whenever  Augustus  wished  to  get  rid  of  a  favourite, 
he  was  glad  to  hear  something  against  her.  His 
anger  on  the  present  occasion  was  a  proof  that  as  yet 
Cosel  was  not  an  object  of  indifference  to  him. 

Not  wishing  to  talk  any  more,  Augustus  nodded  to 
his  guests,  and  retired  to  his  chamber. 

Fiirstenberg  and  the  other  courtiers  regarded  each 
other  sorrowfully — they  feared  the  consequences  of 
such  a  bold  attack. 

But  an  unseen  witness  had  overheard  the  conversa- 
tion ;  this  was  none  other  than  Zaklika,  whom  Countess 
Cosel  had  sent  with  a  letter  to  the  King.  Wearying 
of  her  solitude,  she  had  written  to  the  King,  begging 
him  to  come  and  see  her,  and  had  sent  the  faithful 
youth  with  the  message.  No  one  save  Zaklika  was 
allowed  to  enter  the  room  while  the  King  was  merry- 
making ;  unseen,  he  had  entered  the  room,  and  stood 
behind  the  great  side-board,  waiting  until  the  con- 
versation was  ended  to  deliver  his  letter.  Thus  he 
had  overheard  everything.  The  danger  threatening 
Anna  gave  him  sufficient  courage  to  leave  the  room 
without  handing  the  King  the  letter  ;  he  rushed  back 
to  his  mistress's  palace,  and  tapped  at  the  door  of  her 
chamber.  She  had  just  risen  for  the  first  time.  The 
moment  he  entered,  she  knew  by  his  pale  face  that 
something  had  happened. 

"  Speak  !  "  she  exclaimed.  "  Has  something  hap- 
pened to  the  King  ?" 

"  No,"  replied  Zaklika,  and  then  he  repeated  all 
that  he  had  heard. 

Cosel  listened,  blushing,  confused  and  offended; 
when  he  had  finished,  she  took  the  letter  from  him, 


The  Countess  Cosel  135 

and  signed  to  him  to  withdraw.  She  left  her  chamber 
and  entered  the  drawing-room,  the  walls  of  which 
were  covered  with  pictures  representing  scenes  in  the 
life  of  the  King.  One  of  them  was  a  picture  of  the 
King's  coronation. 

As  Cosel  was  gazing  on  it,  her  eyes  filled 
with  tears,  steps  were  heard  approaching — it  was 
Augustus.  He  walked  quickly,  and  looked  pale  and 
angry. 

As  though  she  had  not  noticed  his  entrance,  Anna 
rose  and  approached  the  picture. 

"  Well/'  said  he  angrily,  "  so  you  condescend  to 
look  at  my  portrait  ?  Surely  it  is  a  mistake  ?  I 
cannot  believe  that  I  still  receive  such  honour." 

"  Your  Majesty,"  replied  Anna  calmly,  "it  would  be 
ridiculous  to  suppose,  that,  being  aware  of  all  that 
makes  you  superior  to  other  men,  any  one  else  should 
attract  my  glance  after  you.  The  most  frivolous 
woman  would  be  incapable  of  doing  so.  How  could 
your  Majesty  have  such  suspicions  ?" 

"Yes,"    interrupted    the      King     with      trembling 
voice,   "  until   to-day  I    flattered  myself,   I   thought— 
but     appearances    are    deceiving,    and    the    caprices 
of  a    woman    are    in    most    cases    difficult    to    under- 
stand." 

The  King's  angry  tones  rejoiced  Anna,  for  she 
was  sure  his  jealousy  meant  that  he  still  loved  her,  but 
she  pretended  to  be  offended. 

"I  do  not  understand  your  Majesty,"  she  said. 
"Will  your  Majesty  please  to  speak  clearly,  so  that  I 
may  have  a  chance  of  justifying  myself?" 

"  To  justify,"    interrupted   the    King   passionately. 


136  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  there  are  some  deeds  that  cannot  be  justified.  You 
wish  to  deceive  me,  but  I  have  proofs." 

"  Proofs  against  me !  "  exclaimed  the  Countess, 
wringing  her  hands.  "  Augustus  !  You  torture  me  ! 
Speak  !  I  am  innocent."' 

She  threw  her  arms  round  his  neck ;  he  tried  to 
push  her  away,  but  she  grasped  his  hand  and  began  to 
weep. 

"  Have  mercy  upon  me  !  Speak  !  Let  me  at  least 
know  why  I  suffer.  Who  has  dared  to  slander 
me?" 

It  took  quite  a  long  time  to  pacify  the  King,  but  her 
tears  softened  him,  and  he  made  her  seat  herself  beside 
him. 

"Very  well,  then,"  said  he,  "  I  will  tell  you  every- 
thing. Fiirstcnberg  told  me  that  the  whole  city  was 
scandalized  at  your  conduct  towards  Lecherenne, 
whom  you  received  every  day,  during  my  absence  ;  he 
used  to  spend  whole  evenings  with  you." 

Cosel  put  on  the  air  of  an  offended  woman. 

"  Yes,"  she  replied,  "  it  is  all  true,  Lecherenne  is  in 
love  with  me,  but  I  laugh  at  him.  He  amused  me 
with  his  love,  but  I  do  not  think  I  sinned  in  listening 
to  him.  Your  Majesty  is  mistaken  in  thinking  that  it 
is  enough  for  any  one  to  be  in  love  with  me,  to  have 
my  love  in  return.  But  it  is  dreadful,"  continued  she, 
wringing  her  hands  again,  "  to  think  that  such  a  person 
as  Fiirstenberg  can  shake  your  Majesty's  faith  in  my 
love." 

She  sank  back  on  the  sofa,  weeping  bitterly.  The 
King  was  completely  disarmed  ;  kneeling  before  her, 
he  began  to  kiss  her. 


The  Countess  Cosel  137 

"  Cosel,  forgive  me,"  he  pleaded,  "  I  should  not  be 
jealous,  if  I  did  not  love  you.  Ftirstenberg  is  the 
most  poisonous  snake  at  my  court.  Forgive  me  !  but 
I  do  not  like  your  being  even  suspected." 

Anna  continued  to  weep. 

"  Sire,"  said  she,  sobbing,  "  remember  that  if  you  do 
not  punish  the  slanderers,  they  will  soon  attack  your 
own  person,  which  is  so  sacred  to  us." 

"  Be  content,"  replied  the  King.  "  I  give  you  my 
word  that  I  will  not  suffer  any  one  to  slander  you,  my 
dearest." 

Thus  the  scene  ended.  Cosel  was  obliged  to 
promise  that  she  would  not  let  Fiirstenberg  know 
that  she  had  learned  of  the  accusation  he  had  made 
against  her. 

Thanks  to  Zaklika,  Cosel  was  victorious. 

The  pacified  King  returned  to  his  castle,  but 
throughout  the  next  day  he  did  not  speak  a  word  to 
Fiirstenberg.  The  Grand  Master  of  the  court, 
Augustus  Lecherenne,  received  an  order  to  leave 
Dresden  within  twenty-four  hours. 

This  was  such  an  unexpected  blow  to  the  young 
Count,  that  he  was  unable  to  believe  the  tidings.  He 
rushed  immediately  to  see  Countess  Cosel.  When 
Zaklika  went  to  announce  his  arrival  to  her,  she 
blushed  from  fear  and  uneasiness. 

"  Tell  him,"  said  she  calmly,  "  that  I  cannot  receive 
those  whom  the  King  has  banished — tell  him,  also," 
added  she,  lowering  her  voice,  "  that  I  am  sorry  he 
has  to  go." 

Saying  this,  she  pulled  from  her  finger  a  diamond 
ring  that  had  been  given  her  by  the  King. 


138  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Give  him  this  ring  from  me,"  she  whispered, 
turning  her  eyes  away  from  the  faithful  servant. 

Zaklika  turned  pale. 

"  Countess,"  he  ventured  to  say,  in  a  muffled 
voice,  "  kindly  excuse  me,  but  this  ring  is  from  the 
King." 

Cosel,  who  could  not  brook  the  slightest  contra- 
diction, turned  towards  him  with  a  threatening  glance 
and  frowning  brow. 

"  I  do  not  ask  you  for  advice,  I  give  you  an  order 
and  you  have  to  execute  it,"  said  she. 

Zaklika  left  the  room,  confused  ;  he  waited  for  a 
few  moments  behind  the  door.  A  few  years  back,  a 
Bohemian  noble  had  given  him  a  costly  ring,  similar 
to  the  one  he  now  held,  as  a  reward  for  his  great 
strength.  Some  presentiment  caused  him  to  change 
the  rings  ;  he  gave  his  own  to  Count  Lecherenne,  and 
hid  the  ring  the  Countess  had  given  him,  close  to  his 
heart. 

A  few  days  later,  the  King  entered  Cosel's  room 
while  she  was  dressing.  As  it  was  always  her  custom 
to  wear  that  ring,  the  jealous  lover  immediately  noticed 
its  absence. 

<(  Where  is  my  ring  ?  "  he  asked. 

Cosel  began  to  search  for  it,  while  the  King's  face 
grew  crimson. 

"  Where  is  it  ?  "  he  repeated. 

Cosel  turned  to  her  servant. 

"  I  have  not  noticed  it  on  your  finger  for  four  days," 
whispered  the  maid. 

Augustus  counted  the  days.  It  was  exactly  four 
days  since  Count  Lecherenne  had  left  Dresden,  and 


The  Countess  Cosel  139 

had  gone  to  the  palace  to  take  leave  of  Cosel,  a  fact  of 
which  the  King  had  been  duly  informed. 

"  Do  not  waste  time  searching  for  it,"  said  he  ironi- 
cally, ''  I  can  tell  you  where  it  is." 

Cosel  looked  confused.  The  King  broke  forth  in 
fury.  He  did  not  wish  to  hear  any  explanation.  The 
servants  rushed  out  terrified,  for  the  King's  voice 
resounded  loudly  throughout  the  palace.  Fear  took 
possession  of  every  one. 

Cosel  was  just  ready  to  faint,  when  a  knock  was 
heard  at  the  door,  and,  looking  up,  she  saw  the  pale, 
sad  face  of  Zaklika. 

"I  beg  to  be  excused  for  entering,"  said  he,  "  but 
the  servants  have  informed  me  that  they  cannot  find 
the  ring,  which  about  an  hour  since  I  picked  up  on 
the  floor,  and  which  I  was  only  waiting  for  a  proper 
opportunity  to  return." 

The  King  glanced  at  the  ring,  and  was  silent. 

Cosel  did  not  even  look  at  Zaklika,  she  said  not  a 
word  to  Augustus,  but,  placing  the  ring  slowly  on  her 
finger,  she  cast  an  angry  glance  at  her  lover,  and 
walked  into  another  room. 

That  was  quite  sufficient  to  calm  the  King,  and 
make  him  seek  her  pardon  on  his  knees.  He  re- 
mained the  whole  day  at  the  palace,  thereby  hinder- 
ing Cosel  from  summoning  Zaklika,  and  demanding 
an  explanation. 

It  was  almost  midnight  when  the  King  retired  to  his 
cabinet,  where  his  ministers  were  awaiting  him.  The 
King  had  barely  quitted  the  palace,  before  Cosel  rang 
the  bell,  and  ordered  the  servant  to  send  Zaklika  to  her. 

As  was  his  wont,  the  faithful    Raymond  was    sitting 


140  The  Countess  Cosel 

in  the  ante-room,  reading  a  half-torn  book.  On 
seeing  the  servant  he  shivered.  He  had  saved  Cosel, 
but  he  knew  his  action  would  be  regarded  as  a  sin. 
Tremblingly  he  entered  the  lady's  room.  Cosel, 
beautiful  as  a  goddess,  and  proud  as  an  absolute 
sovereign,  was  pacing  up  and  down  the  room.  She 
frowned  on  seeing  Zaklika,  and  stood  before  him 
threateningly. 

"  Who  gave  you  permission  to  alter  my  orders?" 
she  inquired. 

Zaklika  stood  for  a  few  moments  with  his  eyes 
drooped,  then,  raising  them  towards  the  Countess's 
face,  he  replied,— 

"  I  am  guilty,  Madam.  You  remember  Laubegast, 
and  the  devotion  with  which  I  gazed  on  you  from 
afar.  This  sentiment,  cherished  until  now,  explains 
everything  to  you.  I  desired  to  save  you." 

"  I  require  help  from  no  one !  "  exclaimed  Cosel 
severely.  "  I  required  you  to  obey  me,  that  is  all, 
and  I  despise  the  sentiments  of  a  servant !  They  are 
offensive  to  me." 

Zaklika's  head  drooped. 

"  Who  told  you  that  I  cared  more  about  your  help- 
ing me  to  get  out  of  trouble  than  I  did  about  Count 
Lecherenne  not  receiving  the  ring?" 

"The  Count  received  the  ring,"  replied  Zaklika, 
although  he  suffered  dreadfully  at  receiving  such  hard 
words. 

"  What  ring  ?  "  demanded  Cosel. 

"  One  similar  to  yours.  I  had  received  one  from 
Count  Starenberg,  and  I  gave  it  to  the  Count  !  " 

Cosel  was  astonished. 


The  Countess  Cosel  141 

"  You  deserve  some  reward,''  she  whispered. 
"  Not  a  reward,  but  forgiveness,"  said  Zaklika.     "  I 
could  not  accept  a  reward." 

He  retreated  towards  the  door,  and   stood   leanino- 

O 

against  it.  Cosel  watched  him  for  some  time. 
Evidently  some  change  had  come  over  her  sentiments, 
but  pride  prevailed. 

She  approached  Zaklika,  and  handed  him  the  ring 
that  had  been  intended  for  Lecherenne. 

Then  Raymond  woke,  as  from  a  dream,  and  seeing 
the  ring  in  her  white  hand,  he  said, — 

"  I  cannot  accept  it !  It  would  always  remind  me 
that  you  were  cruel  to  me." 

The  ring  disappeared,  and  instead,  the  white  hand 
approached  Zaklika's  lips. 

He  kissed  it  rapturously,  and  then  rushed  from  the 
room  like  a  madman,  and  Countess  Cosel  was  left  alone, 
thoughtful,  and  with  tears  in  her  beautiful  dark  eyes. 

"  It  is  thus  that  poor  men  love,"  said  she  to  herself. 
"  Kings  are  different." 

All  this  time  the  Swedes  were  still  in  Saxony. 
Charles  XII.  was  heartless  and  sardonic  towards  the 
King  ;  severe  towards  the  nobility ;  and  a  grievous 
burden  to  the  country,  for  his  soldiers  went  about 
catching  men  and  enrolling  them  in  the  Swedish  army. 
The  treaty  of  peace  had  been  signed,  but  Charles  XI  I. 
would  not  leave  Saxony. 

So  many  humiliations,  so  many  sacrifices,  exhausted 
the  patience  of  all,  and  caused  despair  in  every  heart. 
The  arrogance  of  the  Swedish  monarch,  who  rode 
through  the  country  attended  by  twenty  or  forty 
soldiers,  disgusted  every  one. 


142  The  Countess  Cosel 

One  morning,  when  the  King  was  busy  presiding 
over  a  council  of  his  ministers,  Count  Schulenberg 
was  announced.  The  old  man  was  invited  to  take  part 
in  the  council,  but  he  had  no  desire  to  speak,  and 
begged  a  private  audience. 

When  they  were  alone,  the  King  inquired,— 

"  General,  do  you  bring  me  the  good  tidings  that 
the  Swedes  are  going  to  leave  us  ?" 

"  I  am  sorry  that  I  cannot  bring  your  Majesty  such 
good  tidings.  But  there  might  be  a  way  of  getting 
rid  of  them." 

"  The  only  way  I  know  of  would  be  if  Heaven  sent 
us  its  army,  with  the  archangel  Michael  at  its  head." 

"  Your  Majesty,"  interrupted  Schulenberg,  "  I  am 
sure  that  with  a  little  desperate  courage  we  could  rid 
ourselves  of  them,  without  the  help  of  the  angels. 
There  are  twenty  thousand  Swedes  scattered  through- 
out Saxony  ;  it  is  but  a  mere  handful,  that  one  man's 
daring  renders  terrible.  Let  us  catch  him,  and  the 
rest  have  lost  their  value." 

"  How  can  you  say  that  ?  Catch  him  during 
peace,  when  he  trusts  us  ?  " 

"  That  is  what  makes  our  vengeance  possible," 
replied  Schulenberg.  "  I  have  reconnoitred  his 
quarters.  They  are  very  badly  guarded.  I  could 
attack  them  during  the  night,  and  seize  him.  I  will 
convey  him  to  Konigstein ;  if  they  besiege  me,  I  shall 
not  surrender.  Then  the  King's  head  will  answer  for 
my  safety,  and  he  will  sign  the  treaty,  as  we  wish  it 
to  be  signed." 

Augustus  listened  attentively. 

"  Suppose  you  should  not  succeed  ?  "  he  asked. 


The  Countess  Cosel  143 

"  In  that  case,  the  blame  will  fall  on  me,  and  not  on 
your  Majesty,"  replied  the  General.  "  I  desire  to  save 
my  country  from  the  invaders." 

"  General,"  said  the  King,  "  1  think  you  are  dream- 
ing. You  know  that  I  respect  knightly  customs,  and 
I  cannot  consent  to  your  plans — I  cannot !  I  hate 
him,  I  should  like  to  strangle  him  if  I  could  get  him 
into  my  hands,  but  I  cannot  allow  him  to  be  attacked 
during  the  night.  General,  this  is  not  a  business  for 
Augustus  the  Strong  !  " 

Schulenberg  looked  at  him  gloomily. 
'  Have   they  always   acted    in    a    knightly    fashion 
towards  your  Majesty  ?  " 

"  Ruffians  such  as  they  can  do  what  they  please; 
they  are  barbarians.  But  Augustus,  whom  people  call 
the  Strong,  and  whom  monarchs  style  the  Magnifi- 
cent, will  not  stoop  to  employ  such  means." 

The  old  soldier  twisted  his  moustache,  and 
saluted. 

"But  suppose  some  insubordinate  soldier  were  to 
do  it  ?  "  he  asked. 

"  1  should  be  obliged  to  defend  my  enemy,  and  to 
release  him,"  exclaimed  Augustus. 

"  That  is  very  noble  and  knightly,"  said  Schulen- 
berg sarcastically,  "  but— 

He  did  not  finish,  but  saluted  respectfully. 

The  King  took  his  hand. 

"  My  dear  General,  give  up  that  idea,  and  do  not 
say  another  word  about  it.  I  do  not  wish  for  victory 
at  such  a  cost." 

Schulenberg  looked  at  him  with  his  pale  blue  eyes, 
as  though  he  would  ask  whether  the  imprisonment  of 


144  The  Countess  Cosel 

Imhoff  and  Pfingstein,  and  the  surrender  of  Patkul, 
about  which  Augustus  had  not  hesitated,  were  nobler 
deeds  than  this.  The  King  must  have  understood  the 
mute  reproach,  for  he  blushed.  After  a  moment  of  sad 
silence,  Schulenberg  said, — 

"  We    must    try  and  get  out  of   this    difficulty   by 
some  act  of  despair.     We  must  risk  our    lives.     We 
have  nothing  else  to  lose.     We  have  lost  a  crown  that 
has  cost  us   millions ;  the  other  is    almost  broken— 
what  can  happen  further?  " 

"What  can  happen?"  said  Augustus.  "The 
arrogant  youth  will  go  further.  A  few  victories  have 
given  him  a  mad  boldness,  and  he  will  be  crushed  in 
some  crazy  enterprise  for  which  he  has  not  properly 
calculated  his  strength.  Why  should  we  stain  our 
name  by  trying  to  hasten  that  which  must  most  surely 
come  to  pass  ?  Why  should  we  not  bear  our  adversity 
patiently,  so  that  in  the  end  we  may  profit  by  that 
which  some  one  else  has  accomplished  ?  " 

"  But  in  the  meantime,  Saxony  suffers  dreadfully," 
said  the  General. 

"Yes,  the  poor  people  suffer,"  exclaimed  the  King. 
"  But  the  people  are  like  the  grass  that  is  trodden 
down  by  the  cattle ;  it  is  greener  the  next  year." 

"  But  they  are  people,"  said  Schulenberg. 

"  The  crowd  should  not  be  taken  into  consideration," 
rejoined  the  King. 

Silence  followed,  and  the  General  took  his  leave. 
When  he  was  gone,  the  King  threw  himself  into  a  chair, 
and  was  soon  deep  in  thought. 

After  the  surrender  of  Patkul  his  chivalrous  senti- 
ment was  at  the  least  very  peculiar. 


CHAPTER   XI. 

CHARLES  XI I. 's  defiant  wanderings  through  Saxony 
had  given  Cosel  the  idea  of  seizing  him,  and  thus 
avenging  the  humiliations  of  her  oppressed  country. 
It  was  she  who  had  suggested  the  idea  to  Schulen- 
berg.  She  did  not  mention  it  to  the  King  first,  for 
she  was  sure  he  would  not  listen  to  her  plans.  She 
therefore  was  obliged  to  plot  alone.  She  gained 
Flemming  over  to  her  side,  and  although  he  disliked  the 
favourite,  he  nevertheless  promised  to  aid  her  patriotic 
plan.  Schulenberg  promised  it  the  support  of  his 
cavalry. 

Cosel  declared  that  once  the  deed  was  accomplished, 
although  Augustus  might  be  indignant  at  first,  he 
would  soon  be  obliged  to  give  way.  Still  Schulenberg 
was  commissioned  to  find  out  what  Augustus  would 
think  of  such  a  scheme. 

Although  he  said  not  a  word  to  any  one  on  leaving 
the  King's  presence,  they  could  see  by  his  face  that 
the  plan  had  been  rejected. 

But  in  spite  of  this,  Cosel  was  not  discouraged. 
She  felt  strong  enough  to  fight  the  King  himself. 

Augustus  had  no  secrets  from  her,  and  the  same 
evening  he  told  her  of  his  conversation  with  Schulen- 
berg. Hearing  which,  the  Countess  exclaimed,— 

L 


146  The  Countess  Cosel 

"What?  Your  Majesty  does  not  wish  to  avenge 
his  wrongs  ?  " 

"  Let  us  talk  no  more  of  the  matter,"  said  the 
King,  frowning. 

Seeing  it  was  not  a  good  time  to  press  the  subject, 
Cosel  turned  the  conversation,  and  told  him  all  the 
court  gossip. 

For  a  long  time  she  had  been  urging  the  King  to 
take  her  to  see  the  alchemist.  Bottiger  was  at  this 
time  shut  up  in  a  tower  of  the  castle,  but  although 
kept  in  perpetual  imprisonment,  he  was  always  treated 
with  the  respect  due  to  a  man  from  whom  gold  is 
expected. 

Fiirstenberg  was  for  ever  persuading  the  King  that 
their  object  would  soon  be  accomplished,  and  he  was 
always  at  work  with  the  prisoner,  either  in  his  own 
laboratory  or  in  that  of  the  alchemist.  Bottiger's 
lodging  was  very  comfortable,  almost  magnificent. 
He  had  a  garden  filled  with  flowers,  and  there  were 
plenty  of  silver  dishes  on  his  table,  at  which  he 
frequently  entertained  his  numerous  guests.  Seeing 
he  could  not  possibly  escape,  he  succeeded  in  making 
Fiirstenberg  believe  that  he  was  seriously  thinking 
of  how  to  manufacture  gold.  He  exhausted  all  his 
formulas,  read  all  the  books  on  alchemy, — but  every 
effort  proved  fruitless. 

Knowing  the  great  influence  Cosel  possessed,  the 
prisoner  sought  to  gain  her  favour,  sending  her  every 
day  the  most  beautiful  flowers  from  his  garden. 

The  Countess  was  anxious  to  see  him— the  King 
postponed  the  visit.  But  that  day  she  was  so 
persistent,  so  tender,  and.  at  the  same  time,  so 


The  Countess  Cosel  147 

beautiful,    that   Augustus   rose,    and    offering   her    his 
arm,  said,— 

"  Come,  let  us  go  and  see  Bottiger." 

There  was  no  one  at  hand  who  could  be  sent  to 
announce  the  King's  visit,  but,  chancing  to  look  through 
the  window,  Augustus  saw  Frolich  the  fool,  who  was 
trying  to  rid  himself  of  the  courtiers,  who  were  bent 
on  teasing  him. 

The  King  called  him. 

"  A  most  suitable  messenger,"  said  he  to  Cosel. 
"  I  will  send  him  on  before  us,  so  as  to  give  the 
alchemist  a  chance  of  dressing  decently  ;  and  also  to 
make  sure  that  we  do  not  find  him  in  improper  com- 
pany." 

Bottiger,  whose  good  graces  were  considered  most 
important,  received  even  the  fair  sex. 

Frolich  appeared  on  the  threshold. 

"  I  appoint  you  my  chamberlain  until  the  evening," 
said  the  King,  laughing,  "so  you  must  not  say  that 
you  carry  the  key  in  vain.  Go  and  tell  Bottiger  that 
the  goddess  Diana  will  visit  him  to-day." 

"  In  company  with  Apollo,"  added  Cosel. 

Frolich  went  out  with  much  gravity,  and  proceeded 
by  way  of  the  balcony  to  the  corner  tower. 

A  gay  company  was  assembled  round  the  alchemist's 
table  that  day.  Glasses  and  witty  sayings  were 
circulating  freely.  Amongst  the  guests  were  Prince 
Fiirstenberg,  Secretary  Nehmitz,  and  an  ardent 
admirer  of  alchemy,  Tschirahaussen.  The  thick  walls 
of  the  tower  were  covered  with  silk  brocade,  bright- 
ened by  many  mirrors,  and  enriched  by  gilded  furniture 
and  bronzes.  A  small  staircase  connected  this  room 


148  The  Countess  Cosel 

with  the  laboratory  beneath,  and  with  the  sleeping- 
room  above. 

Bottiger  was  distinguished  among  his  guests  by  his 
beautiful  figure  and  merry  face,  on  which  intelligence 
and  wit  were  plainly  visible.  He  was  carefully 
dressed,  and  looked  more  like  a  nobleman  than  a  man 
who  was  shut  up  in  prison  and  obliged  to  wither  over 
crucibles.  He  was  a  most  jovial  companion  at  the 
dinner-table,  a  most  eloquent  wit  in  society.  The 
company  was  just  drinking  his  health,  and  the  apothe- 
cary was  ready  to  respond  to  the  toast,  when  the  King's 
ambassador,  with  his  pointed  hat,  and  this  day  a  red 
swallow-tail  coat,  appeared  on  the  threshold. 

"  Ah  !   Frolich,"  exclaimed  the  party. 

"  What  do  you  want  ?"  inquired  Bottiger. 

"  I  am  not  a  common  Frolich  to-day,"  replied  the 
fool  gravely.  "  It  has  pleased  His  Majesty  to  appoint 
me  as  his  chamberlain  for  four-and-twenty  hours,  and 
in  fulfilment  of  my  duties  I  am  come  to  announce  to 
you  that  Diana,  accompanied  by  Apollo,  will  honour 
Herr  Bottiger  with  a  visit.  Dixi  !  ' 

He  rapped  with  his  stick.  All  the  guests  sprang  to 
their  feet.  Bottiger  and  Nehmitz  began  to  clear  the 
table.  The  window  was  thrown  open,  and  a  servant 
despatched  for  fresh  flowers.  The  guests  disappeared 
by  the  side  balconies,  for  they  knew  that  the  King 
would  come  by  way  of  the  back  balcony.  The 
alchemist,  Fiirstenberg,  and  Nehmitz  alone  remained 
to  greet  them. 

The  furniture  was  hastily  placed  in  proper  order, 
the  floor  was  strewn  with  flowers,  and  Bottiger  stood 
on  the  threshold  with  a  bouquet. 


The  Countess  Cosel  149 

Soon  the  room  was  brightened  by  the  arrival  of 
Cosel  in  the  full  splendour  of .  her  beauty.  The 
prisoner  knelt. 

"  \Ye  always  receive  a  goddess  kneeling,"  said  he, 
"  and  the  best  sacrifice  we  can  offer  her  is  scented 
flowers." 

Cosel  smilingly  accepted  the  flowers  her  host  offered, 
and  then  looked  around  inquisitively,  wondering  that 
there  was  not  the  least  indication  of  the  great  work 
that  was  in  progress. 

The  King  followed  her,  and  explained  that  they 
were  not  in  the  laboratory. 

"  But  I  should  like  to  see  that  mysterious 
sanctuary,"  said  she. 

"Madam,"  replied  Bottiger,  "it  is  such  a  fearful 
den,  the  air  is  so  unhealthy,  and  the  aspect  so  sad,  that 
a  goddess  should  not  descend  into  such  a  hell." 

"  But  woman's  curiosity  !  "  sighed  Cosel,  and  looked 
at  Augustus.  The  King  looked  at  Fiirstenberg  ;  but 
the  Prince  only  shrugged  his  shoulders. 

"  The  Countess  is  not  accustomed  to  such  dark 
stairs,"  added  the  alchemist. 

But  Cosel  replied, — 

"  The  goddess  commands,  guide  us  !  " 

Saying  this,  she  turned  towards  the  door ;  but 
Bottiger  pressed  a  button  in  the  opposite  wall,  and 
immediately  a  secret  door  flew  open,  and  beside  this 
the  alchemist  stood,  candelabra  in  his  hand. 

Augustus  offered  no  opposition,  and  they  all  de- 
scended the  dark,  narrow  stairs,  and  entered  a  room, 
the  walls  of  which  were  black  with  smoke.  Against 
its  thick  walls  were  several  stoves,  on  which  stood  cold 


150  The  Countess  Cosel 

retorts  and  crucibles  ;  there  were  several  articles  of 
furniture  of  strange  shapes,  and  a  number  of  bottles 
and  jars.  On  the  tables  lay  large  folios  with  brass 
clasps,  rolls  of  parchment,  and  various  kinds  of  tools. 

The  apartment  had  such  a  strange,  gloomy,  and 
mysterious  aspect  that  it  frightened  the  Countess,  who 
was  leaning  on  the  King's  arm. 

Having  raised  the  light,  Bottiger  stood  silently 
watching  them.  Augustus  looked  round  the  labora- 
tory that  contained  such  wonderful  hopes  with  a 
certain  degree  of  respect.  Suddenly  he  advanced  to 
the  table,  and  his  gaze  rested  on  an  object  that  lay 
among  the  papers. 

It  was  a  cup  of  the  colour  of  jasper.  The  King,  who 
was  a  great  admirer  of  china,  thought  it  a  product  of 
Japan. 

"  Bottiger,"  he  exclaimed,  "  that  looks  like  Japanese 
china,  although  it  is  of  a  different  shape  to  theirs." 

"  Your  Majesty,"  replied  the  host,  bowing  reverently, 
"  that  is  my  plaything.  I  tried  to  make  china  from 
the  lime  they  brought  me  wherewith  to  make  gold." 

The  King  took  the  cup,  examined  it  carefully,  and 
then  held  it  against  the  light. 

"  You  say  you  made  this  ?  " 

Bottiger  bent  down  and  picked  up  several  fragments, 
then  from  beneath  the  papers  he  drew  forth  several 
saucers,  which  he  handed  to  the  King  and  Cosel. 

"  Why,  it  is  the  most  beautiful  china  in  the  world  !  " 
exclaimed  Augustus. 

Bottiger  was  silent. 

"  You  are  truly  a  discoverer  !  You  have  found  out 
a  wonderful  secret !  For  God's  sake,  make  porcelain 


The  Countess  Cosel  151 

for  me  !  I  paid  fifty  thousand  thalers  for  one  Chinese 
service.  The  Prussian  robbed  me ;  he  took  away 
a  company  of  my  best-looking  soldiers :  you  can  make 
porcelain,  and  you  say  nothing  about  it  !  " 

"  It  was  only  an  experiment." 

"  A  most  successful  experiment  !  Bottiger,  you  shall 
make  the  first  service  for  Diana  !  " 

Seeing  the  King's  enthusiasm,  Fiirstenberg  and 
Nehmitz  both  approached  to  look  at  the  wonderful 
discovery,  but  the  Prince  was  dissatisfied,  for  he 
feared  the  alchemist  would  neglect  the  gold  for  the 
porcelain. 

The  King  rejoiced  more  over  this  discovery  than 
he  would  have  done  had  he  been  told  th'dt  the  Swedes 
had  left  Saxony.  He  took  the  cup,  and,  after  again 
expressing  his  great  satisfaction,  turned  towards  the 
door.  To  save  the  King  and  Cosel  the  trouble  of 
ascending  the  narrow  stairs,  Bottiger  opened  the  door 
that  led  directly  into  his  garden,  from  whence  they 
returned  to  the  back  balcony. 

That  was  a  memorable  day  in  the  history  of 
Saxony,  which  in  Bottiger's  accidental  discovery 
of  an  art  which  had  long  been  kept  secret  under 
pain  of  death,  had  indeed  gained  a  veritable  gold 
mine. 

A  few  days  later,  news  of  a  more  dramatic  character 
shocked  the  whole  of  Dresden.  Although  Schulen- 
berg  had  given  up  all  idea  of  seizing  the  person  of 
Charles  XII.,  the  more  daring  Cosel,  assisted  by 
Flemming,  had  not  the  slightest  intention  of  relinquish- 
ing it.  Every  day,  the  King  of  Sweden  gave  them  an 
opportunity  of  carrying  out  their  bold  plan  ;  but  the 


152  The  Countess  Cosel 

number  of  persons  necessary  for  its  satisfactory 
accomplishment  was  lacking. 

On  September  ist,  the  same  day  on  which  he  and 
the  Emperor  signed  the  ratification  of  the  treaty  grant- 
ing freedom  to  Protestants,  Charles  XII.  left  Altrand- 
stadt.  He  journeyed  towards  the  North,  following 
his  army,  which,  under  the  command  of  Rhenskyold, 
had  begun  to  leave  Saxony  for  Silesia  and  Poland. 
The  greater  part  had  already  left  Saxony,  but  a  few 
regiments  still  remained  at  Leipzic. 

By  September  6th,  Charles  had  reached  Oberan,  near 
Meissen.  It  was  such  a  beautiful  day  that  he  went 
out  riding  ;  as  they  ascended  a  hill,  one  of  his  followers 
directed  his  attention  to  the  spires  of  the  Dresden 
churches. 

For  some  time  Charles  remained  gazing  at  them, 
thoughtful  and  silent,  then,  addressing  the  few  officers 
who  accompanied  him,  he  said,— 

"  It  is  so  near,  we  must  go  there." 

It  was  between  three  and  four  in  the  afternoon 
when  the  unexpected  guests  arrived  at  the  gates  of 
Dresden.  Finding  the  gate  closed,  Charles  XII.  told 
the  officer  in  command  that  he  had  come  with  messages 
from  the  Swedish  King.  Hearing  this,  the  officer 
conducted  him  and  his  suite  to  the  guard-room..  Now 
it  happened  that  at  the  same  moment  Flemming 
passed  by,  and  he  was  greatly  alarmed  at  recognizing 
the  King. 

At  this  hour  Augustus  was  usually  to  be  found 
taking  exercise  in  the  armoury.  This  afternoon 
Countess  Cosel  was  also  there,  admiring  the  skill  and 
strength  displayed  by  her  lover  in  breaking  iron. 


The  Countess  Cosel  153 

Her  merry   laugh   was  re-echoing   through    the   hall, 
when  a  knock  was  heard  at  the  door. 
"  Come  in  !  "  called  the  King. 

He  turned  towards  the  door  as  he  spoke,  but 
started,  and  then  appeared  as  though  changed  to  a 
block  of  stone  on  seeing  his  enemy,  Charles  XII. 
Flemming,  who  followed  him,  made  signs  to  Countess 
Cosel,  that  he  only  awaited  her  signal,  to  summon  the 
soldiers  and  seize  their  important  guest. 

Augustus  was  still  standing  motionless,  when  Charles 
greeted  him  cheerfully,  exclaiming,— 
<(  Well,  brother  I  how  are  you  ?  " 
Countess  Cosel  turned  purple,  and,  seizing  the  King 
by  the  arm,  whispered, — 
"  For  God's  sake,  consent !  " 

It  seemed  as  though  Charles  XII.  had  overheard 
her  words,  for  his  face  grew  stern,  and  Augustus, 
turning  to  the  Countess,  said  stiffly,-— 

"  I  beg  you  ;   I  command  you  to  leave  us  !  " 
The   Countess,   with  her  accustomed  vivacity,  was 
about   to  make  some  reply,  when  the   King,  frowning 
angrily,  exclaimed, — 
"Go!" 

Cosel  withdrew,  glancing  angrily  at  Charles,  who 
stood  quietly  looking  at  the  armour.  She  took  Flem- 
ming's  arm ;  that  courtier's  eyes  were  also  glowing 
with  anger.  He  shrugged  his  shoulders.  Augustus 
cast  on  them  a  glance  that  commanded  them  both  to 
be  silent,  and  then  greeted  his  visitor  politely,— 

"  We  have  heard  much  talk  of  your  strength,"  said 
Charles,  sneeringly,  "  and  we  should  be  pleased  to  see 
one  of  those  miracles  you  perform  so  easily." 


154  The  Countess  Cosel 

An  iron  rod  lay  on  the  floor ;  Augustus  raised  it. 

"Give  me  your  hand."  said  he,  smiling,  "and  do 
not  be  afraid,  I  will  not  hurt  you." 

Charles  extended  his  broad,  rough  hands.  Twisting 
the  rod  with  perfect  ease,  Augustus  bound  his  enemy's 
hands.  The  two  men  looked  into  each  other's  eyes. 
Then  Augustus  broke  the  fetters,  and  threw  them  on 
the  floor.  The  Swedish  King  did  not  utter  a  word, 
but  began  to  inspect  the  armoury. 

"You  have  plenty  of  arms,"  said  the  Swede  laconi- 
cally, "  what  a  pity  that  you  lack  men  to  use  them." 

From  the  armoury,  both  Kings  proceeded  to  the 
palace,  as  Charles  wished  to  pay  his  respects  to  the 
Queen,  for  whom  he  had  as  great  a  respect  as  he  had 
contempt  for  Augustus. 

In  the  meantime,  the  news  that  Charles  XII.  was 
in  Dresden  spread  rapidly  through  the  city. 

His  name  always  excited  great  interest.  The  Pro- 
testants, knowing  what  he  had  done  for  their  co- 
religionists in  Silesia,  were  anxious  to  see  him.  That 
young  King,  a  few  years  over  twenty,  was  the  wonder 
of  all  Europe.  Count  Flemming  and  all  who  were 
attached  to  Augustus  II.  were  indignant  at  the  bold- 
ness of  the  young  hero,  who  thus  set  the  conquered 
King  at  defiance,  by  coming- unarmed  into  his  capital. 
Flemming  and  Cosel  were  furious,  and  uttered  threats 
of  vengeance.  The  former  ordered  some  of  the 
soldiers  to  be  fetched  from  the  garrison,  and  wished  to 
capture  the  enemy,  despite  the  King's  prohibition. 
Anna  seized  a  pistol,  and  declared  she  would  follow 
him  down  the  street,  and  shoot  him. 

The   excitement    was    considerable   and    universal, 


The  Countess  Cosel  155 

and  could  not  fail  to  be  noticed  by  Augustus  and 
Charles  as  they  passed  to  the  palace.  The  King 
alone  was  perfectly  calm,  and  by  his  manner  com- 
manded every  one  to  keep  quiet.  He,  as  well  as 
Charles,  noticed  the  preparations  that  had  been  made, 
but  the  Swede's  courage  did  not  fail  him  for  a  moment, 
neither  did  he  lose  his  self-possession.  He  made  no 
attempt  to  shorten  his  visit,  and  as  Augustus  was 
plensed  to  entertain  him,  perhaps  to  test  his  courage, 
his  visit  was  a  long  one.  He  remained  for  half  an 
hour  at  the  castle,  and  this  gave  Flemming  plenty  of 
time  to  collect  the  soldiers  and  place  them  in  readiness  ; 
then,  fearing  the  King  would  not  consent  to  his  enemy 
being  captured  in  Dresden,  he  despatched  a  detach- 
ment of  cavalry  to  capture  him  on  his  way  to 
Meissen. 

While  Charles  XII.  was  talking  with  the  Queen, 
Flemming  succeeded  in  calling  Augustus  from  the 
room.  "Your  Majesty,"  he  exclaimed  vehemently, 
"  this  is  the  only  moment  in  which  we  shall  be  able 
to  avenge  all  our  wrongs.  Charles  XI I.  is  in  your 
Majesty's  hands." 

"  Trusting  to  my  honour,"  replied  Augustus,  "  there- 
fore not  a  hair  of  his  head  shall  be  hurt." 

"  It  would  be  ridiculous  to  show  magnanimity  to 
a  man  who  has  brought  such  calamities  on  your 
Majesty.  I  shall  capture  him,  even  if  I  am  beheaded 
for  so  doing." 

"  There  is  something  far  more  important  than  your 
head  to  be  considered  in  this  matter,"  replied  the 
King,  "  and  that  is  my  honour  as  a  King.  Do  not 
dare  to  do  anything  of  the  sort !  " 


156  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Then  there  is  nothing  further  for  me  to  do  than 
to  break  the  sword  with  which  I  have  served  your 
Majesty."  He  made  a  movement  as  he  spoke,  as 
though  about  to  carry  out  his  threat,  but  Augustus 
stopped  him. 

"  Flemming,"  said  he,  sternly,  "  do  not  forget  that 
I  am  here ;  that  this  is  my  business,  and  that  no  one 
commands  here  except  me  !  " 

Flemming's  wrath  was  extreme. 

"  Your  Majesty  will  lose  another  crown  by  acting 
thus ! " 

With  these  words  he  rushed  away,  and  the  King 
returned  quietly  to  the  Queen's  apartments,  where  he 
had  left  his  guest.  Charles  XII.  did  not  even  look  at 
him  as  he  entered,  although  he  guessed  that  outside 
the  door  he  had  been  the  subject  of  conversation. 

While  this  was  taking  place  at  the  castle,  Cosel  was 
watching  in  the  street,  waiting  to  fire  at  Charles  XII. 
as  soon  as  he  appeared.  Zaklika  endeavoured  to  dis- 
suade her  from  her  purpose,  telling  her  that  the 
populace  would  immediately  rise  in  his  defence,  for 
Charles  was  a  staunch  protector  of  the  Protestants. 
And  indeed  this  would  have  been  the  feeling  among 
the  greater  portion  of  the  crowd  now  waiting  in  the 
streets. 

When  Charles  XII.  was  ready  to  depart,  Augustus 
ordered  his  own  horse  to  be  brought,  so  that  he  might 
accompany  his  guest.  The  streets  were  thronged  with 
people,  the  windows  were  filled  with  curious  heads,  a 
profound  silence  reigned,  as  the  two  Kings  rode  along 
the  streets  ;  it  seemed  as  though  the  waiting  multitude 
held  their  breath,  in  their  anxiety  to  catch  the  conver- 


The  Countess  Cosel  157 

sation  of  the  riders.  All  eyes  were  turned  towards 
Charles,  who  rode  calmly  along  without  exhibiting  the 
least  sign  of  feeling  or  emotion.  Beside  him  rode 
Augustus,  looking  gloomy  and  thoughtful,  but  at  the 
same  time  majestic,  They  turned  towards  the  gate 
leading  to  Meissen.  The  King  had  sent  orders  that 
three  cannons  should  be  fired  in  honour  of  the  Swede. 
When  the  first  shot  was  fired,  and  Charles  turned  to 
express  his  thanks,  Augustus  touched  his  hat,  and 
smiled  indifferently.  At  the  gate,  the  cannon  were 
fired  a  second  time.  Charles  now  wished  to  take  leave 
of  his  host,  but  Augustus  knew  Flemming  and  his 
people  too  well  not  to  suspect  that  they  had  prepared 
some  ambush.  He  knew  also  that  the  only  way  in 
which  he  could  protect  the  Swede  was  by  accompany- 
ing him  until  he  was  out  of  reach  of  danger. 

Augustus  accompanied  his  guest  to  Neudorfjhere 
they  shook  hands  and  parted.  Charles  XII.  galloped 
on  his  way,  but  Augustus  sat  motionless  for  a  few 
moments,  gazing  straight  before  him,  wondering 
whether  after  all  he  had  done  well  in  listening  to  the 
dictates  of  honour. 

He  was  still  waiting  there,  when  Flemming  arrived 
foaming  with  rage.  "  Your  Majesty,"  said  he,  "  doubt- 
less thinks  that  Europe  will  admire  your  magnanimity, 
but  if  you  imagine  that  it  will  counterbalance  the 
imprisonment  at  Patkul,  you  are  greatly  mistaken. 
The  people  will  laugh  at  such  heroism." 

"  Silence,  Flemming,"  cried  the  King  threateningly, 
then  turning  his  steed,  he  galloped  away  alone  in  the 
direction  of  the  city. 

He  dismounted  at  the  Palace  of  the   Four  Seasons, 


The  Countess  Cosel 

where  he  found  Cosel  even  more  indignant  than 
Flemming. 

"  Do  not  come  near  me ! "  she  exclaimed,  sobbing. 
"  You  have  made  a  grievous  mistake.  I  do  not  wish 
to  see  you  any  more.  Twenty  millions  of  money, 
hundreds  of  thousands  of  soldiers,  the  death  of  your 
officers,  your  own  shame,  all  this  you  might  have 
avenged,  and  you  would  not.  You  were  afraid  !  " 

The  King  threw  himself  on  the  sofa,  and  allowed 
the  Countess  to  storm  as  she  pleased — he  did  not 
utter  a  word.  Only  when,  exhausted  by  passion,  she 
sank  into  an  arm-chair,  he  remarked  coldly,— 

"  I  had  no  wish  to  stain  my  honour  with  such  a 
revenge !  " 

The  next  day,  seeing  that  every  one  reproached  him 
for  his  lenity,  he  summoned  a  council  of  war,  which 
being  presided  over  by  Flemming,declared  that  it  would 
have  been  right  to  imprison  the  Swedish  King,  and 
force  him  to  sign  a  fresh  treaty,  seeing  he  had  so 
frequently  violated  all  the  laws  of  nations. 

The  King  heard  them  in  silence. 

The  Swedish  envoy  at  Vienna,  having  heard  of  the 
council,  remarked  contemptuously, — 

"  These  people  decide  on  the  second  day  what  they 
should  have  done  the  day  before." 


CHAPTER    XII. 

THE  Swedish  King  had  not  yet  left  Saxony  when 
Augustus  began  giving  splendid  festivals,  for  which  he 
had  plenty  of  time,  although  not  much  money. 
Naturally,  Cosel  was  first  at  all  entertainments,  and 
she  ruled  King  and  country  despotically. 

When  weary  of  balls,  tournaments,  and  carouses, 
Augustus  was  fond  of  taking  excursions  through  the 
country. 

In  Nizyca,  in  the  old  Slav  lands  of  Luzyce,  there  is 
a  very  old  settlement,  situated  at  the  foot  of  a  moun- 
tain, called  Stolp.  This  mountain  was  pushed  from 
out  the  bowels  of  the  earth  by  some  strange  phenomenon 
of  Nature,  and  its  enormous  rocks  of  black  basalt  stand 
boldly  forth,  looking  as  though  they  had  been  hewn  by 
the  hands  of  spirits.  On  these  rocks,  which  were  so 
hard  that  iron  could  not  break  them,  there  was  built, 
many  centuries  ago,  a  castle,  whose  business  it  was  to 
dominate  and  defend  the  borough  that  lay  at  its  feet. 
From  this  mountain  a  wonderful  view  is  obtained  ;  afar 
to  the  south,  one  sees  the  Saxon  and  Bohemian  moun- 
tains covered  with  forests  ;  to  the  west,  there  stand 
forth  the  copper  mountains  of  Saxony  ;  nearer  are 
visible  those  gigantic  heights,  in  form  like  the  pyramids, 
on  which  are  seated  Ditterzbach,  Sonnenstein,  and 


160  The  Countess  Cosel 

Ohorn ;  to  the  East  one  sees  the  forests  and  moun- 
tains of  Hochwald — whilst  in  the  far  distance  Bohemian 
villages  and  towns  are  visible. 

In  days  of  yore,  the  old  castle  of  Stolpen  was  the 
property  of  the  Bishops  of  Meissen,  and  stood  forth  to 
view,  magnificent  though  gloomy,  with  its  pointed 
towers,  which  not  even  thunderbolts  could  destroy. 
This  castle  was  surrounded  by  enormous  walls,  near  it 
was  a  large  pirk,  and  in  the  adjoining  forest  game  was 
to  be  found  in  abundance. 

One  beautiful  day  in  July,  before  the  heat  had  set 
in,  horses  stood  ready  before  the  castle  of  Dresden. 
One  of  Augustus'  courtiers  had  told  him  of  the  strange 
mountain,  composed  of  iron-like  rocks,  on  which  the 
castle  of  Stolpen  stood,  and  the  King,  recollecting  it, 
longed  to  see  it. 

The  dew  was  still  wet  on  the  grass  and  trees,  when 
the  King  came  forth  to  mount  his  charger.  At  the 
same  moment  Zaklika  appeared  with  a  message  from 
Cosel,  inquiring  where  His  Majesty  was  going. 

"Tell  your  mistress,"  said  the  King,  "that  I  am 
going  to  Stolpen,  and  that  if  she  choose,  she  may  over- 
take me  ;  but  I  am  not  going  to  wait  until  the  heat  of 
the  day  has  set  in  ;  this  will  be  the  case  long  before  she 
has  finished  dressing." 

Cosel  had  just  left  her  bed,  she  was  angry  that  the 
King  had  not  notified  her  of  this  excursion  ;  and  when 
Zaklika  returned  with  the  answer,  she  felt  hurt  that  the 
King  was  not  willing  to  wait  for  her.  Still  she  gave 
order  that  the  horses  should  be  saddled,  and  some 
young  nobles  invited  to  accompany  her.  Everything 
was  to  be  ready  in  half  an  hour,  for  Cosel  was  deter- 


The  Countess  Cosel  161 

mined  to  show  the  King  that  she  did  not  require  to  take 
a  long  time  dressing,  in  order  to  appear  beautiful.  She 
wished  to  overtake  him  before  he  could  reach  Stolpen. 
In  half  an  hour  the  gentlemen  invited  were  ready,  and 
Cosel's  white  Arab  steed,  its  saddle  covered  with 
crimson  velvet  ornamented  with  gold,  was  neighing 
impatiently.  Then  the  beautiful  lady  came  forth  to  the 
astonishment  of  her  admirers.  She  wore  a  wonderfully 
becoming  dress.  Her  hat  was  blue  with  white  and 
azure  feathers  ;  her  bodice  was  blue  embroidered  with 
gold,  and  a  full  white  skirt,  likewise  trimmed  with  gold, 
completed  her  costume.  She  sprang  on  her  horse,  im- 
patient to  start  as  soon  as  possible.  Then  she  welcomed 
her  guests  with  a  gracious  smile. 

"  Gentlemen,"  said  she,  raising  her  small  hand,  in 
which  she  held  a  riding  whip  whose  handle  was  set 
with  precious  stones,  "  the  King  has  challenged  me  to 
race  with  him.  He  started  half  an  hour  ago,  but  we 
must  overtake  him,  even  though  our  horses  should  die 
in  the  attempt,  or  we  should  break  our  own  necks. 
He  who  cares  for  me,  will  follow  me ! " 

Having  said  this,  the  bold  amazon  turned  her  horse 
towards  the  gate,  and  galloped  madly  down  the  street. 
Zaklika  and  an  equerry  followed  her  closely,  to  be  in 
readiness  in  case  of  accident.  The  others  followed 
after.  With  the  white  Arab  keeping  well  ahead,  they 
passed  through  the  old  city,  and  turned  to  the  left  to- 
wards Stolpen.  Fortunately  for  the  party,  the  high 
road  was  broad  and  sandy,  the  morning  refreshing,  and 
the  horses  strong  and  fresh.  In  silence,  the  Countess's 
brilliant  cavalcade  flew  along  the  road,  as  though  carried 
by  the  wind. 

M 


1 62  The  Countess  Cosel 

They  passed  mountains  and  groves,  meadows  and 
fields.  Through  the  orchards  they  could  see  the 
villages  of  the  Wends,  with  their  houses  surrounded  by 
wooden  piazzas,  and  covered  with  high  roofs.  From 
time  to  time  they  met  a  peasant  coming  along  the  road, 
who  doffed  his  cap  respectfully  at  sight  of  the  marvellous 
apparition,  but  before  he  could  open  his  mouth  to  reply 
to  the  question  whether  he  had  seen  the  King,  the 
riders  who  had  asked  it  had  disappeared  in  clouds  of 
dust. 

The  horses  were  covered  with  foam,  and,  after  an 
hour  of  mad  riding,  the  equerry  besought  the  Countess 
to  stop  and  rest.  At  first  she  would  not  listen  to  him, 
but  in  the  end  she  slackened  her  pace,  and  the  horses 
stopped  in  front  of  an  old  house.  The  poor  animals 
were  panting  and  snorting.  In  the  doorway  stood  an 
old,  yellow-faced,  miserable-looking  woman,  leaning  on 
a  stick.  She  glanced  at  the  riders  with  indifference, 
and  then  turned  her  face  from  them. 

Only  once  Countess  Cosel's  eyes  and  hers  met,  and 
the  beautiful  lady  shivered. 

They  asked  the  old  woman  about  the  King,  but  she 
only  shook  her  head. 

"We  don't  have  any  kings,  our  kings  are  dead !  " 

She  spoke  slowly  and  with  indifference,  and  her 
accent  was  that  of  a  foreigner. 

At  that  moment,  a  middle-aged  man  came  out  of  the 
house  ;  he  had  long  hair,  and  wore  a  blue  jacket  with 
silver  buttons,  knee  breeches,  and  stockings.  Taking 
off  his  hat,  he  welcomed  the  guests  in  pure  Saxon 
German. 

He  told  them  that   it  was  three-quarters  of  an  hour 


The  Countess  Cosel  163 

since  the  King  had  passed  the  house,  but  that  he  was 
riding  so  fast  that  it  would  be  impossible  to  overtake 
him. 

Cosel  then  inquired  if  there  were  not  a  shorter  way, 
but  finding  there  was  none,  she  dismounted,  and  ex- 
pressed her  intention  of  resting  for  a  few  moments. 
Thereupon  the  German  offered  the  company  some  beer. 

"  Who  is  that  woman  ? "  inquired  Cosel,  pointing 
towards  the  beggar. 

The  German  shrugged  his  shoulders  contemptuously: 

"  She  is  a  Slav,  a  Wendish  woman  !  I  cannot  get 
rid  of  her.  She  claims  that  this  property  used  to 
belong  to  her  father.  She  lives  not  far  from  here  in  a 
hut  built  at  the  foot  of  the  mountain.  I  don't  know 
what  she  lives  on ;  she  wanders  across  the  fields 
muttering,  and  who  knows  but  it  may  be  some  devilish 
incantations,  for  she  must  be  a  witch.  Sometimes  of 
nights  when  the  storm  howls  she  sings,  and  then  we 
shiver.  I  cannot  chase  her  away,  for  she  knows  how 
to  conjure  up  devils,  who  serve  her.'' 

Then  with  a  sigh,  he  added, — 

"  She  foretells  the  future,  and  she  is  never 
mistaken." 

Cosel  turned  and  looked  at  the  old  woman ;  then 
she  went  over  to  her.  She  was  the  only  one  of  the 
party  bold  enough  ;  her  companions,  hearing  witchcraft 
mentioned,  had  withdrawn  to  a  distance. 

"  What  is  her  name  ?  "  she  asked  the  German. 

The  man  hesitated,  then  whispered  so  low  that 
even  she  could  scarcely  hear  what  he  said,— 

"  Mlawa." 

The  old  woman  made  a  movement  as  though  she 


164  The  Countess  Cosel 

heard  her  name ;  she  raised  her  emaciated  head 
proudly,  shook  her  long,  hanging,  grey  locks,  and 
looked  around,  as  though  searching  for  the  bold  person 
who  had  dared  to  mention  her  name. 

Unheeding  the  woman's  strange  manner,  Cosel,  to 
the  surprise  of  her  companions,  went  up  to  the  old 
beggar.  For  a  moment  the  two  women  looked  into 
each  other's  eyes. 

Cosel  was  the  first  to  speak. 

"Who  are  you?"  she  asked.  "Tell  me  why  you 
are  so  poor." 

Mlawa  shook  her  head. 

"  I  am  not  poor,"  she  replied  proudly,  "for  I  have 
memories  of  happy  years.  I  am  here  still  on  the  land 
that  belonged  to  my  family.  I  am  the  Queen/' 

"You  are  a  Queen  ?"  laughed  Cosel. 

"  Yes,  I  am  a  Queen !  for  the  blood  of  the  kings  of 
this  land  flows  in  my  veins.  All  things  are  possible  in 
this  world.  You,  though  to-day  you  are  almost  a 
Queen,  by  to-morrow  may  be  as  miserable  as  I." 

"  Of  what  kings  are  you  speaking  ?  "  inquired  Cosel 
thoughtfully. 

The  old  woman  raised  her  hand  and  pointed  to  the 
surrounding  country. 

"All  that  was  ours — all,  until  you  came  and  took 
it,  and  slew  us  as  though  we  had  been  wild  beasts. 
We  were  good  ;  we  came  with  bread,  and  salt,  and 
song  ;  while  you  came  with  iron,  fire,  and  slaughter. 
And  the  German  race  multiplied,  and  pushed  us  out  of 
our  land.  It's  my  land,  and  I  must  die  here.  From 
this  place  my  soul  will  find  its  way  back  to  my 
people," 


The  Countess  Cosel  165 

"  Are  you  able  to  tell  fortunes  ?  "  asked  Cosel,  urged 
thereto  by  feverish  curiosity. 

"  That  depends,"  said  Mlawa  indifferently. 

"  Would  you  do  it  for  me  ?  " 

The  old  woman  looked  on  her  pityingly. 

"  Why  do  you  wish  your  fortune  told  ?  "  asked  she. 
"  Whoever  rose  as  high  as  you  have  done  can  only 
fall ;  better  not  ask  !  " 

Cosel  paled,  but  anxious  to  show  that  she  was 
courageous,  she  smiled,  though  her  lips  trembled. 

"  I  am  not  afraid  of  anything,"  she  said,  "  I  can  look 
at  happiness,  as  I  can  look  at  the  sun  ;  and  I  shall  be 
able  to  look  into  the  darkness  a^o." 

"  But  suppose  the  darkness  lasts  too  long  ? " 

"  It  cannot  last  for  ever,"  rejoined  Cosel. 

"Who  can  tell  ?"  whispered  Mlawa.  "  Let  me  see 
your  hand  !  "  she  added,  stretching  forth  her  own. 

The  Countess  retreated  a  few  paces,  feeling  rather 
afraid,  for  in  those  days  every  one  believed  in  witch- 
craft. 

"  Don't  be  afraid,  my  beauty,"  said  Mlawa  calmly. 
"  I  shall  not  soil  your  white  fingers,  I  shall  only  look 
at  them." 

Cosel  drew  off  her  glove,  and  exhibited  to  the  old 
woman,  a  beautiful  white  hand,  glittering  with  rings. 

"  What  a  beautiful  hand  !  Worthy  to  be  kissed  by 
kings ;  but,  my  child,  there  are  dreadful  signs  in  it. 
That  hand  often  touched  the  face  that  looked  on  her 
boldly.  Am  I  right  ?  " 

Cosel  blushed  ;  Mlawa  was  thoughtful. 

"  What  are  you  going  to  tell  me  ?  "  whispered  Cosel 
uneasily. 


1 66  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  You  are  going  on  towards  your  destiny.  Who 
has  ever  avoided  his  fate  ?  Who  has  ever  seen  its 
precipices  ?  After  long  happiness,  there  awaits  you 
a  still  longer,  oh,  far  longer  season  of  penitence,  a 
rigorous  captivity,  sleepless  nights,  unaccustomed 
tears.  Having  children,  you  will  be  childless  ;  with 
a  husband,  you  will  be  a  widow, you  will  be  an  imprisoned 
Queen  ;  you  will  be  free,  but  you  will  throw  away  your 
freedom — you  will  be — oh  !  don't  ask  me — " 

Cosel  was  as  white  as  marble,  but  still  she  tried  to 
smile. 

"  Wrhat  have  I  done  to  you,"  she  asked,  <(  that  ^ou 
wish  to  terrify  me  ?  " 

"I  pity  you !"  said  Mlawa.  "Why  did  you  wish 
to  look  into  my  soul  ?  Wormwood  grows  there ! 
Bitterness  flows  through  my  words.  I  pity  you  !  " 

The  old  woman's  head  drooped. 

"  You  are  not  the  only  one !  Thousands  have 
suffered  in  this  world,  and  have  died,  and  their  ashes 
are  scattered  by  the  winds.  Like  you,  thousands  are 
moaning  in  slavery — my  forefathers,  grandfather, 
father,  kings.  I  am  the  last  of  their  race.  The 
German  has  driven  me  from  my  home." 

Cosel  drew  a  gold  coin  from  her  purse,  and  handed 
it  to  the  old  woman. 

"  I  don't  take  alms,"  said  she ;  "  you  will  pay 
differently  ;  everything  is  reckoned  above." 

And  raising  her  hands,  she  walked  into  the 
meadows. 

During  this  conversation,  Cosel's  companions  had 
been  standing  at  a  little  distance,  admiring  her  courage. 
Now  none  dared  ask  why  she  looked  so  pale  and 


The  Countess  Cosel  167 

thoughtful.     She  mounted  her  horse,  but  she  dropped 
the  rein  and  allowed  the  animal  to  guide  her. 

They  continued  to  ride  forward,  but  slowly.  Then 
from  afar  high  towers  appeared  in  sight. 

"That  is  Stolpen,"  said  the  equerry. 

An  hour's  more  riding  and  they  reached  the 
castle.  The  King's  cavalcade  was  standing  opposite 
the  rock  of  basalt,  waiting  for  the  Countess,  whom 
they  had  seen  while  she  was  still  at  a  distance. 

Augustus  advanced  to  meet  her  with  a  smile  of 
welcome. 

"  I  have  been  waiting  for  you  an  hour,"  said  he. 

"  Yes,  for  I  lost  half  an  hour  over  some  fortune- 
teller," replied  the  Countess. 

The  King  looked  surprised. 

"Well,  what  fortune  did  she  prophesy  for  you?" 
he  inquired. 

Anna  looked  at  him,  and  her  beautiful  eyes  filled 
with  tears.  Augustus  grew  confused  and  alarmed. 
Then  he  strove  to  chase  away  her  sadness,  and  was 
gallant  and  witty. 

"  What  a  magnificent  castle  these  Bishops  of 
Meissen  built !  "  he  said. 

"It  is  dreadful!  Fearful!"  said  Cosel  shivering. 
"  I  am  surprised  that  the  King  should  come  for 
pleasure  to  a  place  where  memories  of  torture  and 
cruelties  reign  supreme." 

"Why,  my  lady,''  interrupted  Augustus,  "your 
beautiful  eyes  can  make  bright  the  gloomiest  spot.  I 
am  happy  everywhere  with  you." 

He  offered  her  his  arm  and  she  leant  on  it.  Thus 
they  went  round  the  dreadful  castle.  The  Countess 


168  The  Countess  Cosel 

was  silent,  the  King  serene.  Perhaps  he  was  thinking 
that  when  his  prisons  at  Konigstein  and  Sonnenstein 
were  full,  he  would  be  able  to  shut  up  a  few  prisoners 
here.  He  wished  to  see  the  interior  of  the  castle,  but 
Cosel  remained  outside,  looking  at  the  black  towers 
and  walls.  The  King  went  on  further  and  examined 
the  prisons,  called  "  Monchlock,"  where  the  monks  were 
kept,  then  the  "  Richter-gehorsam,"  and  a  pitch  dark 
"  Burguersiess,"  into  which  the  prisoners  descended  by 
means  of  a  ladder.  Although  empty,  everything  was 
in  good  order.  Augustus  looked  at  everything  with 
eager  curiosity,  and  as  though  he  were  searching  for 
traces  of  the  old  tortures.  At  length,  having  looked 
at  the  walls  of  the  fortress,  he  left  the  castle. 

Outside  he  found  Cosel  just  where  he  had  left  her  ; 
she  appeared  gloomily  thoughtful. 

"  What  a  dreadful  place  !  "  she  repeated.  "  It  seems 
as  if  I  could — can  hear  the  moans  of  those  who  have 
been  tortured  here." 

"We  cannot  be  tender  towards  every  one,"  said 
Augustus,  indifferently.  "  But  how  is  it  you  have 
such  gloomy  thoughts  ?  Let  us  leave  the  castle  and 
go  into  the  park.  I  have  ordered  them  to  have  lunch 
ready.  Soon  they  will  drive  up  some  game,  and  we 
shall  be  able  to  admire  your  skill  in  shooting  them." 

In  the  park,  under  a  magnificent  Turkish  tent,  they 
found  lunch  all  ready  prepared  for  them.  The  sun 
was  scorching,  the  heat  was  overpowering,  so  that  none 
of  the  company  were  very  animated.  Even  the  witty 
Kyan  sat  silent  in  front  of  his  full  glass.  Augustus 
did  not  like  silence,  so  he  ordered  the  servants  to 
serve  quickly,  and  then  fetch  the  rifles. 


The  Countess  Cosel  169 

Luncheon  ended,  all  went  into  the  park.  Cosel 
followed  the  King,  but  she  felt  very  sad,  for  Mlawa's 
words,  foretelling  the  dreadful  fate  that  awaited  her, 
still  rang  in  her  ears,  though  at  present  no  signs  of 
such  a  fate  were  visible.  Augustus,  on  the  contrary, 
was  merry. 

Towards  evening,  having  killed  a  few  deer  and  boars, 
Augustus  mounted  his  horse.  Cosel  rode  beside  him. 
As  they  passed  the  house  where  she  met  Mlawa, 
Cosel  searched  for  her  with  her  eyes,  but  she  was  not 
there.  A  little  further  on  they  saw  her  standing  lean- 
ing on  her  stick,  as  though  she  were  waiting  to  see  the 
King.  She  glanced  at  Cosel  and  smiled,  as  though 
recognizing  an  old  acquaintance.  Augustus  turned 
from  the  sight  of  her  in  disgust. 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

PRINCE  FURSTENBURG  and  Count  Flemming  had  made  a 
compact  to  get  rid  of  Countess  Cosel.  She  ordered 
them,  as  if  she  had  been  a  Queen,  she  treated  them 
proudly,  and  she  squandered  money  like  a  child  who  is 
ignorant  of  its  value.  The  influence  she  had  acquired 
over  the  King  alarmed  every  one.  None  of  the  King's 
favourites  had  had  such  power,  such  faith  in  herself, 
and  none  of  them  had  been  able  to  keep  the  fickle 
Augustus  so  long  at  her  side.  The  whole  court 
longed  for  her  downfall ;  the  number  of  her  enemies 
increased  daily.  But  the  Countess  heeded  them  not, 
and  when  the  faithful  Zaklika  told  her  things  that  he 
had  overheard,  she  only  laughed  contemptuously. 
Slowly  yet  surely  the  forces  of  her  enemies  were 
gathering  together  against  her,  but  as  yet  they  did  not 
venture  to  declare  open  war.  They  were  waiting  for 
certain  symptoms  that  would  lead  them  to  believe  that 
the  King  was  tired  of  her,  and  would  indicate  that  the 
fight  would  be  crowned  with  victory. 

On  the  one  side  were  adroit  and  clever  courtiers, 
drilled  from  childhood  in  the  art  of  intriguing,  and 
aided  in  their  enterprise  by  corrupt  and  cunning- 
women  ;  on  the  other  side  was  Countess  Cosel,  proud, 
intelligent,  trusting  in  her  beauty,  in  her  imaginary 


The  Countess  Cosel  i;1 

title  of  wife,  in  the  knot  that  had  been  made  fast 
by  having  her  children  acknowledged,  and  a  few 
friends  without  influence,  and  a  few  double-faced 
people,  who  were  eager  to  be  on  the  victorious  side, 
and  only  waiting  to  see  which  side  had  the  greatest 
power.  The  prospect  was  that  the  war  would  be  long, 
but  Cosel's  adversaries  were  patient,  and,  knowing  the 
disposition  of  the  King,  felt  confident  of  an  ultimate 
victory. 

They  knew  that  sooner  or  later  Cosel  must  weary 
the  King  by  her  fancies  and  by  her  insatiable  desire 
for  luxury  as  well  as  by  her  pride  and  impetuosity. 
Until  the  present  these  had  amused  the  King,  but  at 
any  moment  the  scale  might  turn. 

Everyone  of  importance  at  Court  was  against  Cosel, 
profiting  by  the  King's  absence  in  Flanders,  whither 
he  had  gone  to  fight  against  France,  in  the  hope  that 
by  some  deed  of  daring  he  might  brighten  his  fame, 
so  clouded  by  the  Swedish  defeat.  Fiirstenberg  and 
Flemming  wished  to  shake  the  King's  love  by  writing 
to  him  about  the  Countess's  extravagant  luxuries.  So 
black  did  they  succeed  in  painting  her,  that  the  King 
gave  orders  that  she  should  not  be  furnished  with 
too  much  money.  Fiirstenberg  seized  on  this  order 
to  refuse  Cosel  money  several  times  when  she  required 
it,  for  which  insult  the  Countess  threatened  to  give 
him  a  slap  in  the  face  should  she  come  across  him. 

But  when  the  King  arrived  in  Dresden,  he  had  not 
a  single  look  for  Fiirstenberg,  instead,  he  went 
straight  to  the  Palace  of  the  Four  Seasons,  where 
again  he  found  Cosel  just  leaving  her  room  after 
another  confinement.  She  was  more  beautiful  than 


The  Countess  Cosel 

ever,     and,    although     weeping,    received     him    most 
affectionatelv. 

4 

"  Ah  !  my  lord  !  "  she  exclaimed,  throwing  her  arms 
round  his  neck,  "  you  know  that  I  am  always  eager  to 
see  you  as  soon  as  possible,  yet,  perhaps,  never 
have  I  longed  so  much  for  your  return  as  at  the 
present  time.  Deliver  me  from  persecution !  Am  I 
still  the  mistress  of  your  heart  or  not,  that  these  men 
humiliate  me  so  cruelly  ?  " 

"  Who  ?  "  inquired  the  King. 

"Your  best  friends  ;  that  drunkard,  Flemming,  and 
that  perverse  hypocrite,  Fiirstenberg,  have  made  me 
a  laughing-stock,  My  lord  !  deliver  me  from  them." 

After  long  separation,  Cosel  had  regained  her  power 
over  the  King,  who  had  begun  to  cool  towards  her. 

"  I  will  scold  Fiirstenberg  and  Flemming  severely," 
said  he. 

By  the  time  he  left  the  palace,  he  was  once  more 
under  the  influence  of  her  charms,  and  when  Fiirsten- 
berg and  Flemming  came  to  him  with  an  accusation 
against  her,  he  told  them  both  to  go  the  next  day 
and  beg  the  Countess's  pardon. 

"  You  are  both  wrong.  I  dislike  quarrels,  and  you 
must  make  it  up  with  the  Countess." 

"  Your  Majesty,  it  would  be  too  humiliating  for 
me,"  said  Flemming. 

"  It  must  be  done,  otherwise  you  would  be  obliged 
to  leave  the  Court." 

The  next  day  the  King  sent  for  them  to  come  to  the 
Palace  of  the  Four  Seasons.  Cosel  was  crimson  with 
anger,  and  proud  as  a  Queen. 

"  I  suppose,"  said  the  King,  "that  a  mutual  misun- 


The  Countess  Cosel  173 

derstanding  was  the  cause  of  the  quarrel.  The  Countess 
will  forget  the  past,  and  you,  gentlemen,  ever  in- 
dulgent to  the  fair  sex,  you  will  overlook  it  if  she 
has  ever  said  any  bitter  words  about  you." 

All  the  while  the  King  was  speaking,  Cosel's  look 
was  full  of  anger,  Fiirstenberg's  of  hatred,  and 
Flemming's  of  irony.  Yet  when  he  had  finished,  they 
bowed  politely,  and  their  indistinct  mutterings  might 
have  been  taken  as  begging  pardon. 

Neither  side  was  deluded  with  the  idea  that  the 
reconciliation  was  sincere. 

Soon  after  this  her  cunning  enemies  again  tried  to 
make  the  King  quarrel  with  the  beautiful  Cosel,  who 
seemed  to  be  one  of  those  wonderful  creatures  who 
are  always  young.  Passing  through  Brussels  on  his 
way  from  Flanders,  the  King  met  a  beautiful  dancing 
girl,  called  Duparc,  and  invited  her  to  come  to 
Dresden.  Cosel's  enemies  knew  how  jealous  she  was, 
and  they  employed  the  Baroness  Glasenapp  to  carry 
out  an  intrigue.  When  inviting  Duparc  to  Dresden, 
Augustus  did  not  tell  her  that  he  was  the  King ; 
he  was  travelling  then  under  the  name  of  Count 
Torgau.  On  her  arrival  in  Dresden,  she  failed  to  find 
a  Count  of  that  name.  However,  she  had  an  aunt 
in  Dresden,  who  was  in  the  theatre,  and  this  aunt 
took  her  to  Chamberlain  Murdachs,  who  was  at  that 
time  director  of  the  royal  entertainments.  He  knew 
all  about  Duparc,  and  to  her  great  surprise  received 
her  very  well,  expressing  a  wish  that  she  would  appear 
in  the  ballet,  called  l(  The  Princess  Elida,"  that  had 
just  been  prepared  to  celebrate  the  King's  return. 
All  this  was  the  work  of  Count  Torgau,  and  both  the 


i;4  The  Countess  Cosel 

women  guessed  that  he  must  be  the  King,  and  their 
suppositions  were  rendered  more  certain  by  the  anony- 
mous presents  received  by  the  dancer. 

During  the  ballet  the  King  sat  in  the  box  with 
Cosel ;  when  Duparc  noticed  him  she  fainted  from 
emotion.  The  King  ordered  his  doctor  to  go  and 
attend  to  her,  and  this  seriously  displeased  his 
jealous  favourite. 

"  It  seems  to  me,"  said  she,  "that  your  Majesty  is 
too  good  in  taking  such  interest  in  an  unknown 
dancer,  who  probably  does  not  deserve  such  a  favour." 

Augustus  was  offended,  and  replied  drily, — 

"  It  is  true  that  I  should  often  be  accused  of  shoeing 
too  much  favour  to  persons  who  only  abuse  it !  I  hope 
that  Duparc  will  be  less  exacting." 

Cosel,  unable  to  control  either  her  voice  or  her 
movements,  withdrew  to  the  further  end  of  the  box, 
exclaiming,— 

"Your  Majesty  has  a  peculiar  taste  for  the  street 
womzn." 

Fearing  a  further  outburst  of  passion  from  her, 
the  King  left  the  box. 

Cosel  was  thus  exposed  to  the  ironical  glances  of 
the  whole  Court ;  she  remained  for  a  short  time  longer, 
then  making  believe  that  she  was  unwell,  ordered 
her  litter,  and  returned  home. 

The  Countess's  enemies  thought  that  by  exciting 
her  jealousy,  they  would  succeed  in  making  her  quarrel 
with  the  King ;  and  with  this  end  in  view  they  sent 
the  Baroness  Glasenapp  to  call  on  her.  She  found 
Cosel  in  tears  and  at  once  began  to  prattle. 

"  You  cannot  think  how  I  pity  you.     I  know  every- 


The  Countess  Cosel  175 

thing,  and  I  am  indignant  at  it.     You  do  not  perhaps 
know  that  the  King  has  taken  supper  with  Duparc  ?" 

Cosel  listened  quietly  to  her  gossip,  then  she 
said, — 

"  Do  not  think  that  I  am  jealous ;  I  only  grieve  for 
the  King,  who  wrongs  himself  more  than  he  does 
me." 

Having  said  this,  she  rose,  wiped  away  her  tears, 
and,  suspecting  some  intrigue,  tried  to  appear  in- 
different. 

Glasenapp  did  not  succeed  in  making  her  angry. 
Cosel  could  control  herself  at  times. 

The  King  did  not  come  to  see  her  the  next  day, 
he  was  afraid  of  her  impetuosity.  Instead  he  sent 
Vitzthum  to  reconnoitre.  Cosel  and  he  had  always 
been  good  friends.  Apparently,  he  came  of  his 
own  accord,  to  inquire  after  her  health,  and  did 
not  in  anyway  allude  to  the  events  of  the  preceding 
evening. 

"  As  you  see,  I  am  quite  well,"  said  Cosel  with 
a  sad  smile. 

"  You  are  always  beautiful !  " 

"  And  you  are  always  good-hearted  and  polite." 

They  talked  awhile  on  indifferent  subjects,  and 
then  Vitzthum  returned  to  the  King  and  told  him 
Cosel  was  very  reasonable. 

The  whole  clique  of  her  enemies  now  waited 
impatiently  for  the  denouement.  Towards  evening 
Augustus  himself  repaired  to  the  Palace  of  the  Four 
Seasons. 

The  news  spread,  and  faces  grew  sad  in  con- 
sequence. 


176  The  Countess  Cosel 

The  King  had  become  accustomed  to  Anna, 
and  did  not  wish  to  abandon  her  ;  although  his 
passionate  love  for  her  had  passed,  the  habit  still 
remained.  He  was  ashamed  of  Duparc  and  proud  of 
Cosel.  Cosel  on  her  side  was  determined  to  be 
as  reasonable  as  the  Queen  herself. 

il  I  do  not  like  public  quarrels,"  said  the  King, 
"  they  do  not  become  either  of  us." 

"  Your  Majesty,  it  is  my  love  for  the  King." 

"  It  must  be  reasonable,"  interrupted  Augustus. 

"  It  is  characteristic  of  love  that  it  cannot  be 
reasonable." 

"  But  you  must  try  not  to  be  jealous." 

"Why,  your  Majesty,  should  you  give  me  any 
reason  for  jealousy  ?  " 

The  King  shrugged  his  shoulders,  and  replied, — 

"  Childishness." 

Cosel  refrained  from  another  outburst ;  she  knew 
that  she  was  not  threatened  by  anything. 

The  relations  between  her  and  the  King  were  not 
at  all  changed,  only  they  had  become  less  cordial ;  a 
ceremonious  gallantry  was  now  substituted  for  his 
former  passionate  love. 

The  best  proof  that  the  Countess  had  not  lost  her 
lover's  heart  was  furnished  by  the  visit  of  the  Danish 
King,  Frederick  IV.  Augustus,  who  was  always 
glad  of  an  opportunity  for  festivities  and  entertain- 
ments, by  which  he  might  astonish  Europe,  received 
his  nephew  with  great  splendour,  and  in  all  the 
festivities  Cosel  played  the  leading  part,  for  by  her 
beauty  and  majestic  mien,  she  was  superior  to  all  the 
women  at  Court.  It  seemed  as  though  the  King 


The  Countess  Cosel  177 

should  be  excused  for  admiring  such  an  exceptional 
being. 

After  the  balls,  tournaments,  shooting  parties,  there 
came  the  day  when  the  Danish  King  must  take  his 
departure  and  set  out  on  a  journey  to  Berlin,  whither 
Augustus  was  to  accompany  him.  After  a  splendid 
supper,  Cosel  returned  to  her  palace.  Her  face  still 
glowed  with  triumph  and  enthusiasm,  but  at  the  same 
time  she  felt  exhausted.  She  threw  herself  down  on 
the  sofa  to  rest. 

In  the  palace  perfect  silence  reigned,  and  this  quiet, 
following  on  the  noise  of  the  entertainment,  acted  on 
her  most  strangely.  She  was  seized  with  a  most 
unjustifiable  fear. 

During  the  hour  of  her  triumph,  she  had  several 
times  encountered  Flemming's  ironical  glances,  in 
which  there  was  an  expression  of  menace,  which  she 
alone  could  understand.  Those  looks  stung  her  to 
the  heart  and  made  her  sad. 

In  vain  she  tried  to  brighten  her  gloomy  thoughts, 
by  recalling  all  the  marks  of  favour  shown  her  by  the 
King  ;  she  could  not  succeed,  and  even  in  the  hour  of 
her  triumphs,  she  was  haunted  by  the  presentiment  of 
a  miserable  future. 

She  did  not  expect  to  see  the  King  that  day,  for 
the  next  morning  he  set  out  for  Berlin. 

Suddenly  the  sound  of  footsteps  was  heard  coming 
along  the  corridor  that  connected  the  staircase  with 
the  gallery  leading  to  the  castle.  It  could  be  no  one 
but  Augustus,  and  Cosel  sprang  to  her  feet  and 
hastened  to  the  mirror,  to  assure  herself  that  her  har: 
and  dress  were  in  proper  order. 

N 


178  The  Countess  Cosel 

Her  first  glance  told  Cosel  that  Augustus  was  in  a 
state  in  which  she  had  but  seldom  seen  him. 

The  leave-taking  of  his  nephew,  whom  the  courtiers 
had  respectfully  carried  to  his  bed,  had  been  celebrated 
with  bumper  toasts.  The  King,  although  accustomed 
to  these  feasts,  had  not  come  out  victorious.  It  was 
true  that  he  was  able  to  walk  with  the  assistance  of 
his  chamberlain,  but  that  minister  only  accompanied 
him  to  the  door,  and  as  soon  as  he  was  in  Cosel's 
room  he  threw  himself  immediately  on  the  sofa.  His 
face  was  crimson,  his  eyes  misty,  and  his  speech 
indistinct. 

"Anna,"  said  he,  "I  wished  to  bid  you  good- 
bye. Well,  to-day  you  were  triumphant,  as  women 
very  seldom  can  be.  At  least  you  will  thank  me 
for  it." 

Cosel  turned  towards  him — she  was  sad. 

<(  Alas  !  my  lord,"  she  replied,  "  I  have  not  sufficient 
words  to  express  my  gratitude.  But  had  you  seen 
the  jealous  glances  cast  at  me,  you  would  understand 
why  I  have  returned  sad." 

Augustus  smiled. 

"The  tragi-comedy  of  life,"  he  returned  indifferently. 
"  I  had  my  Charles  XII. — you  have  your  Flemming ! 
Every  one  has  some  pain,  and  life — is  life.  Be  merry 
for  my  sake." 

"  I  cannot,"  she  said. 

"  For  me!  "  repeated  Augustus. 

Cosel  looked  at  him,  then  she  smiled,  though  rather 
with  an  effort  than  from  the  heart. 

"Could  I  always  look  on  you,  my  lord,"  said  she, 
sitting  down  beside  him,  "then  I  should  be  always 


The  Countess  Cosel  179 

most  happy.  But  unfortunately  you  are  going  away, 
and  who  can  tell  how  you  will  return  ? '' 

"  Probably  not  so  drunk  as  I  am  to-night,"  rejoined 
Augustus,  with  a  cold  smile.  "  I  like  wine,  but  I  hate 
its  dominating  over  me." 

"  And  when  will  my  lord  return  ?  "  inquired  Cosel. 

"  Ask  the  astrologers  that  question,  I  do  not  know. 
We  are  going  to  Berlin.  But  there  is  one  thing  I  am 
glad  of,  Brandenburg  will  look  rather  meagre  when 
compared  with  our  festivities.  Frederick  will  show  us 
his  soldiers  instead  of  giving  us  a  good  dinner.  Berlin 
after  Dresden,  ha !  ha  !  ha !  I  am  going  on  purpose 
to  see  my  triumph." 

"But  will  your  Majesty  return  faithful  to  me?" 
asked  Cosel,  with  whom  this  was  now  a  constant 
thought. 

"  From  Berlin  ?  "  laughed  Augustus.  "  It  is  one  of 
the  most  tedious  courts  in  Europe.  There  is  no  danger 
there  either  for  me  or  for  you." 

"  And  Dessau  ?"  whispered  Cosel. 

"  That  is  true  !  "  said  the  King,  making  a  movement 
with  his  head.  "  She  was  pretty,  but  she  did  not 
understand  gallantry.  She  was  offended  with  half  a 
word.  No,  I  do  not  like  such  women." 

Then  kissing  her  hand,  he  said, — 

"  My  dear  Anna,  I  should  like  to  ask  you  a  favour. 
I  should  be  glad  if  you  and  Flemming  would  not  devour 
each  other." 

Anna  frowned. 

"  Your  Majesty  must  kindly  say  that  to  Flemming, 
not  to  me.  He  is  lacking  in  civility  to  me,  to  Cosel. 
to  Augustus'  wife." 


180  The  Countess  Cosel 

At  these  words  a  strange  smile  passed  over  the 
King's  face  and  his  eyes  shone  fiercely. 

"  But  I  dislike  wars,"  said  he. 

"  Then  command  him  to  respect  and  obey  me,  your 
children's  mother  ;  that  will  be  the  best  way  of  keeping 
peace." 

The  King  made  no  reply  to  this,  but  began  to  take 
his  leave.  Cosel  hung  tenderly  on  his  neck,  then 
she  conducted  him  to  the  door,  behind  which  the 
chamberlain  was  waiting.  The  King  was  gloomy 
when  he  left  Cosel. 

Who  could  tell  the  thoughts  that  then  filled  his 
mind  ?  The  same  evening  he  summoned  Flemming. 
He  was  sarcastic  and  irritable. 

"  Old  man,"  said  he,  jokingly,  "  Cosel  complains  of 
you.  You  must  endure  it ;  you  must  not  pay  attention 
to  many  things,  the  others  you  must  forgive.  You 
know  I  bear  a  great  deal  from  her." 

"  Countess  Cosel  pays  your  Majesty  with  her  love," 
said  Flemming  familiarly,  "that  is  quite  different." 

"Well,  get  on  well  with  Cosel,"  added  Augustus. 

"  It  will  be  difficult ;  I  cannct  be  her  courtier  ;  I 
can  neither  lie  nor  flatter,  and  it  is  no  easy  matter  for 
me  to  bow,  for  my  back  is  old." 

To  this  the  King  replied,  laughing, — 

"  It  is  true,  she  does  not  like  you  either.  She  says 
that  you  look  just  like  a  monkey." 

Flemming's  eyes  gleamed,  he  muttered  something 
between  his  teeth,  and  then  relapsed  into  silence. 

Had  the  King  desired  to  make  them  implacable 
enemies,  he  could  not  have  employed  better  means. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

WHILST  Augustus  was  enjoying  himself  with  the  in- 
difference of  a  man  who  believes  in  destiny,  Charles 
XII.  was  also  hastening  to  his  fate.  In  a  strange 
country,  with  a  handful  of  men,  he  hurled  himself 
against  an  unknown  power  ;  and,  with  the  bravery  of 
a  lion  and  the  recklessness  of  a  young  man,  he  accepted 
battle  on  the  plains  of  Poltowa. 

This  battle  was  decisive  for  many  countries,  and  for 
a  still  greater  number  of  persons. 

Augustus  was  returning  from  Berlin  well  satisfied 
that  he  had  not  been  surpassed  by  that  Court,  which 
did  not  care  for  splendour  or  luxury.  On  his  way  he 
was  overtaken  by  a  courtier,  sent  from  Warsaw  by 
Princess  Teschen,  who,  on  being  deserted  by  Augustus, 
had  returned  to  her  own  country,  although  she  still 
preserved  some  sentiments  of  affection  towards  her 
royal  lover. 

The  Princess  was  the  first  to  notify  him  of  the  fact 
that  Charles  had  been  defeated.  It  was  a  great  surprise 
to  the  King,  who  now,  for  the  first  time,  realized  the 
mistake  he  had  made  in  resigning  the  Polish  Crown. 
But,  at  the  same  time,  he  wished  to  keep  his  word  in 
the  face  of  Europe.  While  he  still  hesitated,  Flemming 
arrived. 


182  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Your  Majesty,"  said  he,  "  treaties  obtained  by  force 
are  not  binding.  We  must  return  at  once  to  Poland. 
Leszczynski  is  not  a  King.  Your  Majesty  will  find 
thousands  of  loyal  hands  ready  to  defend  your  rights. 
We  have  only  to  go,  and  the  victory  is  ours." 

The  crown,  relinquished  after  such  heavy  sacrifices, 
was  very  tempting  to  the  Kurfiirst.  He  had  planned 
to  create  a  great  and  hereditary  monarchy  there. 
Even  were  he  obliged  to  give  up  one  of  his  own 
provinces  to  his  envious  neighbours,  Poland  united  to 
Saxony  would  be  a  very  powerful  state.  He  must, 
therefore,  hasten  to  win  back  the  crown,  and  change 
it  from  an  elective  to  an  hereditary  one. 

Augustus  accepted  Flemming's  advice,  and  decided 
to  return  to  Poland.  Flemming  had  many  connec- 
tions in  Poland,  in  consequence  of  one  of  his  cousins 
having  married  the  Castelane  Przebendowska,  and  all 
his  friends  had  promised  to  help  him — there  could  be 
no  doubt  of  a  happy  termination.  From  Poland  there 
also  came  Denhoff,  and  the  Bishop  Szaniawski,  both 
of  whom  invited  Augustus  to  return.  While  the  King 
of  Denmark  was  at  Dresden,  Augustus  had  concluded 
an  alliance  with  him,  and  to  it  was  now  added 
Frederick  of  Brandenburg. 

Augustus  had  now  no  time  for  love  affairs.  Imme- 
diately on  receiving  the  news  of  the  battle  of  Pultowa, 
he  returned  to  Berlin,  to  come  to  an  understanding 
with  its  sovereign.  He  had  barely  time  to  see  Cosel, 
whose  quarrel  with  Flemming  had  considerably  in- 
creased. Flemming  felt  himself  strengthened  by  events. 
The  Countess  had  sent  to  him  several  times,  with 
different  demands,  but  he  always  refused  to  carry  them 


The  Countess  Cosel  183 

out,  declaring  that  now  he  had  more  important 
business  to  deal  with.  He  tore  Cosel's  letters  in 
pieces  and  trampled  on  them,  telling  the  messenger 
that  he  did  not  care  for  her  complaints  or  her  threats. 
Cosel  could  not  put  up  with  such  provocation. 

On  the  fourth  day  Flemming,  who  was  riding,  met 
her  near  the  gates  of  the  palace.  Cosel  leaned  out  of 
the  carriage  window,  and,  shaking  her  fist  at  him, 
exclaimed,- — 

"  You  must  remember  who  you  are,  and  who  I  am  ! 
You  are  the  King's  servant,  and  have  to  obey  orders. 
I  am  mistress  here.  You  wish  for  war  with  me,  you 
shall  have  it." 

Flemming  laughed,  and  with  apparent  courtesy, 
touched  his  hat. 

"  I  do  not  make  war  on  women,"  said  he,  "  and  I 
do  what  I  consider  good  for  my  master.  I  will  neither 
bow  to,  nor  gratify  women's  caprices." 

Then,  setting  spurs  to  his  horse,  he  galloped  away. 

War  had  now  begun  in  good  earnest  between  them. 
Cosel  wept  with  anger,  and  awaited  Augustus's 
return. 

Augustus  returned  early  the  next  day,  and  he  had 
already  been  informed  of  everything  that  had  occurred, 
for  when  Flemming  met  him  on  the  road,  he  said  to 
him,— 

"  I  wonder  that  you,  an  old  soldier  and  a  diplo- 
mat, cannot  live  in  peace  with  one  woman." 

"  Your  Majesty,"  returned  the  General,  "  I  live  in 
peace  with  many,  but  I  cannot  with  those  who  think 
themselves  goddesses  and  queens.  That  woman  ruins 
the  country,  and  does  not  respect  any  one." 


1 84  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  But  I  love  this  woman,  and  I  require  her  to  be 
obeyed." 

"  No  one  slighted  her,  until  she  began  to  insult 
every  one*" 

The  King  was  silent,  and  Flemming  added,  con- 
fidentially,— 

"  She  will  ruin  Saxony,  and  Poland  too,  and  then 
she  will  not  be  satisfied.  Your  Majesty  may  be  satis- 
fied with  her  caprices,  but  with  us  who  surround  the 
throne,  our  duty  is  to  free  your  Majesty  from  such 
fetters." 

Augustus  hastened  to  speak  of  other  matters.  On 
reaching  the  castle  he  went  at  once  to  Cosel,  who  was 
awaiting  him  with  anger  and  reproaches,  things  that 
Augustus  disliked  exceedingly. 

"  My  King  !  my  lord  !  "  she  cried.  "  Help  me  ! 
Flemming  treats  me  as  if  I  were  the  least  among 
women.  He  insults  me  publicly;  he  tears  my  letters 
in  pieces  and  tramples  on  them.  He  has  threatened 
to  drive  me  from  this  palace.  Your  Majesty  must 
choose  between  him  and  me." 

Augustus  embraced  her,  smiling. 

"Calm  yourself,  my  dear  Countess,  you  are  excited. 
I  need  Flemming  just  now,  therefore  I  must  be  kind 
to  him." 

"  And  I  ?  "  asked  Cosel. 

"  You  know  very  well  that  I  cannot  live  with- 
out you.  But  if  you  love  me,  you  will  do  some- 
thing for  my  sake.  You  will  be  reconciled  to 
Flemming." 

"  Never  !  "  exclaimed  Cosel. 

"  He  will  ask  your  pardon." 


The  Countess  Cosel  185 

"  I  do  not  care  about  it.  I  wish  never  to  see  the 
man  again." 

Augustus  took  hold  of  her  hand,  and  said  coldly, — 

"  My  dear  Cosel,  to-day  you  wish  to  be  rid  of 
Flemming,  to-morrow  you  will  ask  to  be  freed  from 
Fiirstenberg,  after  that  it  will  be  the  same  with  Plug 
and  Vitzthum.  You  cannot  live  in  peace  with  any  one." 

"  Because  no  one  is  friends  with  me,"  replied  Anna. 

She  began  to  cry ;  thereupon  the  King  rang  the 
bell,  and,  despite  Cosel's  opposition,  ordered  Flemming 
to  be  summoned. 

After  a  long  time,  which  Augustus  employed  in 
pacing  furiously  up  and  down  the  room,  the  General 
arrived.  He  did  not  salute  Cosel  on  entering,  but 
turned  straight  towards  the  King. 

"  My  dear  Flemming,"  said  Augustus,  "  if  you  love 
me,  you  will  ask  pardon  of  the  Countess.  Shake 
hands  both  of  you  !  " 

"  Never !  "  exclaimed  Cosel.  "  I  will  not  shake 
hands  with  that  vile  courtier,  who  has  dared  to  slight 
a  woman." 

"  Do  not  be  afraid,"  said  Flemming,  "I  shall  not 
bother  you  by  shaking  hands  with  you.  I  do  not 
know  how  to  lie,  and  I  shall  offer  no  excuses." 

The  King  had  risen.     He  was  angry. 

"  General,  you  will  do  it  for  me,"  he  said. 

"  Neither  will  I  do  it  for  your  Majesty.  I  should 
prefer  to  leave  your  service." 

"You  villain!"  screamed  Cosel.  "  His  Majesty's 
favours  have  made  you  arrogant ;  but  it  is  not  far  from 
Dresden  to  Konigstein,  thank  God  !  " 

"  Cosel,  for  Heaven's  sake  !  "  interrupted  Augustus. 


1 86  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Your  Majesty  will  permit  me  to  be  frank  ;  for  I 
likewise  do  not  know  how  to  lie.  I  must  tell  him 
what  I  think  of  him.  He  declared  war  against  me,  let 
him  have  it." 

"I  do  not  propose  to  make  war  against  you, 
Countess,''  said  Flamming,  "  I  have  something  better 
to  do." 

"  Leave  my  house !  "  screamed  the  Countess,  stamp- 
ing her  foot  on  the  floor. 

"  This  house  is  not  yours ;  there  is  not  one  thing 
that  belongs  to  you  ;  this  is  a  palace  belonging  to  my 
King  and  my  lord,  and  I  shall  not  leave  it  without 
his  orders,"  replied  Flemming. 

Cosel  began  to  weep  and  tear  her  dress.  Then, 
addressing  Flemming,  the  King  said,  gently  and 
calmly, — 

"  General,  I  beg  you  to  make  peace.  I  love  you 
both ;  I  require  both  of  you.  Why  must  I  suffer 
because  of  you  ?  " 

"  Your  Majesty  does  not  need  to  listen  to  our 
quarrels  ;  it  were  better  to  leave  them  to  be  decided 
by  fate." 

Having  exhausted  all  her  arguments,  Cosel  threw 
herself  on  the  sofa.  The  King,  seeing  no  means  of 
reconciling  them,  either  by  calming  Flemming  or  by 
softening  the  irritated  Countess,  extended  his  hand 
to  the  General  and  conducted  him  to  the  door. 
Then  Augustus  began  to  pace  up  and  down ;  he 
was  thoughtful,  and  it  was  evident  that  he  was 
occupied  with  matters  of  greater  importance. 

Cosel  loaded  him  reproaches. 

"  Alas !  sire,"  said  she,  "  then  it  has  come  to  this, 


The  Countess  Cosel  187 

that  your  servants  insult  me.  It  is  my  fate.  Flem- 
ming  laughs  at  the  one  you  say  you  love." 

"  Dear  Countess,"  he  replied  calmly,  "  all  that  you 
say  proves  that  you  do  not  know  how  I  am  situated. 
At  this  moment  I  need  Flemming  more  than  I  do  my 
right  hand  :  to  make  him  angry  is  to  renounce  the 
crown  of  Poland.  You  cannot  ask  that  of  me,  and  if 
you  did,  as  a  King  I  should  not  do  it.  You  know  that 
I  do  not  refuse  you  anything,  but  there  is  a  limit  to  all 
things.  I  was  a  King  before  I  was  Cosel's  lover." 

Frowning,  fearful,  mad,  Cosel  rushed  towards  Augus- 
tus. 

"  Lover !  "  she  screamed.  "  I  have  your  written 
promise.  I  am  not  your  mistress  ;  I  am  your  wife  !  " 

Augustus  made  a  grimace. 

"All  the  more  reason  you  should  pay  attention  to 
the  interests  of  my  crown,"  he  replied. 

Again  Cosel  relapsed  into  tears.  Augustus  looked 
at  the  clock. 

"I  am  not  master  of  my  own  time,"  said  he,  "I 
have  too  much  to  do.  I  must  leave  for  Poland 
shortly.  Dear  Countess,  be  calm,  Flemming  is  im- 
petuous, but  he  loves  me,  and  will  do  what  I  ask  him." 

Cosel  made  no  reply.  She  shook  hands  with 
Augustus  silently,  and  he  departed. 

Soon  after  this  scene  they  began  to  prepare  for  the 
journey  to  Poland.  As  she  was  enceinte,  the  Countess 
was  unable  to  accompany  the  King  on  this  expedition. 

Cosel  well  knew  the  danger  that  threatened  her. 
At  Warsaw  the  King  would  meet  Princess  Tes- 
chen,  and  although  in  the  whole  of  Augustus's  life 
there  had  never  occurred  a  reconciliation  between 


1 88  The  Countess  Cosel 

him  and  a  former  favourite,  Anna  felt  uneasy.  Still 
she  was  more  afraid  of  the  other  women  whom  her 
enemies  put  in  the  King's  way,  in  the  hope  of  inducing 
him  to  abandon  her  for  a  new  favourite. 

To  save  the  Countess  the  unpleasantness  of  quarrels 
with  Flemming,  the  King  had  determined  to  take 
him  with  him,  and  although  Anna  would  rather  have 
suffered  his  persecutions  at  Dresden,  than  have  had 
him  close  to  Augustus  intriguing  against  her,  she  was 
powerless  to  prevent  it. 

The  King  was  very  kind  towards  her  up  to  the  last 
moment,  and  he  assured  her  that  he  had  strictly 
forbidden  Fiirstenberg  to  annoy  her. 

Having  learned  that  Flemming  was  going  with  the 
King,  and  that  the  Countess  would  remain  at  home, 
Cosel's  enemies  grew  hope.ful  that  things  would  change, 
and  that  the  combined  influence  of  Flemming  and 
Przebendowska  would  ultimately  prevail,  and  a  new 
favourite  be  substituted  for  Cosel. 

Her  downfall  seemed  to  them  certain. 

The  day  of  his  departure,  Augustus  was  as  tender 
as  possible.  He  spent  the  whole  day  with  Cosel, 
whose  state  of  pregnancy  having  made  her  weak,  tried 
to  arouse  the  King's  pity  by  recalling  old  memories. 

But  this  was  the  worst  possible  way  she  could  have 
acted.  Augustus  was  charmed  by  vivacity,  gaiety, 
boldness,  jealousy,  daring — everything  that  acted  on 
the  senses ;  but  sentiment  was  unknown  to  him ;  he 
played  at  it  from  time  to  time,  but  he  never  felt  it. 

To  attempt  to  arouse  in  him  tender  feelings  was  the 
surest  way  to  bore  him.  Cosel  was  greatly  alarmed  ; 
she  kissed  the  King ;  she  wept ;  she  entreated  him  not 


The  Countess  Cosel  189 

to  leave  her,  not  to  forget  her.  Augustus  replied  in  his 
choicest  words,  but  his  studied  declarations  werechilling. 

Several  years  had  passed  ;  the  enthusiasm  of  both 
of  them  had  cooled.  But  in  the  woman  there  re- 
mained attachment,  tenderness,  gratitude  ;  in  the 
King  a  feeling  of  weariness  predominated.  Instead 
of  pitying  her  sadness,  he  wished  to  escape  from  it  as 
quickly  as  possible  ;  her  tears  made  him  impatient,  her 
grief  bored  him. 

Cosel  could  no  longer  appear  gay  and  cheerful  as 
formerly,  in  the  happy  days  when  she  used  to  ride  out 
with  the  King  to  hunt  the  deer,  or  took  her  part  in 
shooting  at  a  target. 

Her  charms  had  not  changed,  but  daily  intercourse 
with  her  had  made  them  appear  common  in  the  King's 
eyes.  Grief  had  not  dimmed  her  beauty ;  her  eye 
had  not  lost  its  brilliancy  ;  but  neither  her  charming 
looks,  nor  her  smiles,  could  now  bring  the  King  to 
her  feet.  Her  power  over  Augustus  was  ended,  the 
beloved  woman  had  become  common,  because  she  no 
longer  possessed  for  him  the  charm  of  novelty. 

Never  before,  when  the  King  departed,  had  the 
Countess  felt  as  lonely  as  she  did  now.  The  palace, 
until  then  crowded,  was  suddenly  deserted.  Cosel  had 
no  one  to  be  with  her. 

During  the  day,  the  gossiping  Baroness  Glasenapp 
would  rush  in,  or  the  stern  Baron  Haxthausen,  her 
only  friend,  would  dine  with  her.  This  was  all  the 
company  she  had. 

In  the  whole  crowd,  her  most  faithful  friend  was 
Raymond  Zaklika,  whose  hand  uften  trembled  with 
the  desire  to  attack  some  arrogant  man  who  had 


190  The  Countess  Cosel 

offended  the  Countess.  The  slightest  sign  from  her 
would  have  been  sufficient  for  him,  and  the  one  whom 
he  touched  would  have  been  a  dead  man. 

Looking  towards  him  at  critical  moments,  Cosel  had 
sometimes  noticed  him  in  such  a  state  of  excitement 
that  she  had  been  obliged  to  calm  him. 

Being  a  servant,  Zaklika  had  no  opportunity  of  ex- 
pressing his  feeling,  but  the  Countess  understood  him 
perfectly,  and  knew  that  she  could  depend  on  his 
loyalty.  Had  she  bidden  him  kill  Flemming,  he  would 
have  done  so  instantly,  and  would  then  have  gone 
without  a  groan  to  the  scaffold.  In  his  eyes,  she  was 
always  the  same  beautiful  star  that  he  had  seen  shining 
in  bygone  days  among  the  linden  trees  at  Laubegast. 
To  him  she  even  appeared  more  beautiful,  and  his 
whole  happiness  lay  in  the  privilege  of  seeing  her 
several  times  a  day. 

But  whilst  at  Dresden  all  was  sad  and  quiet,  the 
King,  in  the  best  of  spirits,  and  full  of  hope,  was 
hastening  to  Warsaw.  Flemming  was  with  him,  the 
Countess  Przebendowska  preceded  him.  It  was  an 
open  secret  that  they  wished  to  find  a  new  lady  for 
the  King  at  Warsaw.  They  did  not  wish  her  to  be  as 
beautiful  as  Cosel,  for  beauty  such  as  hers  threatened 
a  long  attachment;  neither  must  she  be  witty,  for  the 
King  was  content  with  giddiness,  and  she  must  not 
possess  a  heart,  for  it  was  only  at  the  commencement 
that  Augustus  played  a  sentimental  part. 

Youth,  great  daring,  coquetry,  a  good  name,  and 
good  breeding  were  sufficient,  and  would  counter- 
balance Cosel. 

With  these   instructions,   Countess    Przebendowska 


The  Countess  Cosel  191 

started  for  Warsaw,  where  she  was  to  choose.  Flem- 
ming's  cousin  was  a  great  friend  of  Countess  Bie- 
linska,  whose  two  married  daughters,  the  Countesses 
Denhoff  and  Pociej,  both  pretty,  quiet  and  merry,  could 
be  placed  on  the  list  of  candidates. 

The  first  day  after  her  arrival,  Przebendowska  paid 
a  visit  to  her  friend,  who  gave  her  a  cordial  welcome. 
She  knew  Przebendowska's  influence  over  Flemming, 
and  his  power  over  the  King. 

"  My  dear,"  said  Przebendowska,  "  I  come  to  you 
with  many  troubles,  and  I  hope  you  will  help  me." 

"  I  will  share  them  with  you  willingly,"  rejoined 
Bielinska. 

"  We  are  having  great  trouble  with  the  King,"  con- 
tinued Przebendowska.  "  He  is  in  love  with  a  woman 
who  for  several  years  has  made  him  do  whatever  she 
pleases." 

"  I  know  Cosel !  "  interrupted  Bielinska.  "  But 
why  did  not  the  King  hold  to  Teschen  ?  ' 

"  He  is  never  faithful  to  any  one  for  long.  We  must 
get  rid  of  Cosel,  and  find  him  some  one  else.  The 
King  is  wearied." 

Bielinska  became  thoughtful. 

"  It  is  easy  enough  to  find  some  one  else,  but  \vex 
must  be  careful  not  to  put  new  fetters  on  him." 

Countess  Przebendowska  stayed  to  dinner  with  her 
friend,  whose  two  daughters  were  also  dining  with 
her.  Both  of  these  ladies  were  young,  elegant  in 
movement,  and  pretty.  Countess  Pociej  was  small 
and  neat  ;  she  appeared  frail,  but  her  eyes  lit  up  with 
fire,  laughter  was  for  ever  bursting*  from  her  lips. 
Countess  Denhoff  was  not  tall  either ;  she  was 


i92  The  Countess  Cosel 

gracious,  and  played  the  part  of  a  melancholy  person, 
although  naturally  she  was  flighty,  and  burned  with  a 
desire  for  gaiety.  Her  eyes  sparkled  with  wit  and 
malice,  which  she  veiled  under  an  exaggerated 
modesty. 

Countess  Przebendowska  talked  on  indifferent 
subjects,  but  she  never  let  the  two  pretty  young  ladies 
out  of  her  sight  for  a  moment.  The  dinner  ended, 
the  two  old  ladies  were  left  alone. 

Przebendowska  knew  well  that  Bielinska's  affairs 
were  in  a  bad  state,  and  she  at  once  began  to  condole 
with  her  about  them.  Presently  her  friend  said, — 

"  You  have  seen  my  daughters.  Marie  is  quiet, 
fresh,  and  pretty  ;  she  is  also  good-hearted,  submissive, 
and  easily  guided.  How  do  you  like  her  ? " 

"  She  is  charming." 

"  She  is  like  quicksilver,  and,  although  she  seems 
delicate,  she  is  really  very  strong  and  lively." 

Then,  lowering  her  voice,  the  mother  continued, — 

"We  have  been  good  friends  since  childhood;  if 
some  one  must  be  so  happy  as  to  attach  the  King,  why 
should  we  not  introduce  Marie  to  him  ?  " 

"  I  did  not  know  if  you  would  wish  it." 

"  Why  not  ?  Denhoff  is  a  bad  husband,  and  he  is 
not  young,  either;  she  is  very  unhappy  with  him.  If 
he  objects  to  have  the  King  as  a  rival,  Marie  will 
obtain  a  divorce  from  him." 

"  But  would  she  be  willing  ?" 

"  I  will  persuade  her,"  said  the  anxious  mother. 
"It  would  really  be  a  great  blessing  for  us.  Our 
affairs  are  in  a  shocking  condition.  Should  my  hus- 
band die,  we  should  all  be  ruined," 


The  Countess  Cosel  193 

Countess  Przebendowska  neither  promised  nor  re- 
fused. 

"  We  shall  see,  we  shall  see,"  she  said  ;  then  added, 
"  We  must  not  say  a  word  to  Marie  until  we  are  sure 
she  pleases  the  King.  Cosel  was  jealous  and  arbitrary  ; 
after  her,  he  will  require  some  one  who  is  gentle,  merry, 
and  submissive." 

"  He  would  not  find  any  one  who  answered  that 
description  better  than  Marie  does — that  I  warrant 
you." 

After  a  long  time  spent  in  conversation,  the  friends 
separated,  a  good  understanding  having  been  estab- 
lished between  them. 

A  few  days  later  the  King  and  Flemming  arrived. 
Countess  Przebendowska  lived  in  the  same  house 
with  her  uncle,  and  they  were  able  to  talk  freely 
even  on  the  first  evening.  She  at  once  mentioned 
Countess  Denhoff  to  him. 

The  General  made  a  grimace  ;  he  had  heard  a  great 
deal  about  that  lady  and  her  giddiness ;  but  after  a 
pause  he  said,— 

"  The  King  is  weary,  and  any  woman  can  captivate 
him,  so  it  may  be  better  for  him  to  have  her." 

The  next  day  the  General  said  that  before  de- 
ciding anything  he  must  make  the  acquaintance  of 
Countess  Denhoff.  Both  the  ladies  were  accordingly 
invited  to  spend  an  evening  at  Countess  Przeben- 
dowska's  palace.  Flemming  did  not  much  like  the 
candidate,  but  after  searching  about  for  several  days 
they  were  obliged  to  decide  on  Countess  Denhoff,  she 
being  less  dangerous  than  any  of  the  others.  Having 
learned  a  lesson  by  his  experience  with  Cosel,  Flem- 

o 


i94  The  Countess  Cosel 

ming  was  afraid  of  an  ambitious  woman,  or  one  who 
desired  to  rule.  Countess  Denhoff  was  giddy  and 
coquettish,  but  she  was  not  jealous,  and  never  dreamt 
of  influencing  any  one  ;  she  was  simply  fond  of  life. 

The  next  day,  Countess  Przebendowska  had  an 
opportunity  of  approaching  the  King.  She  was  merry 
and  jocular. 

"Your  Majesty,"  said  she,  "it  seems  as  though  it 
should  be  Poland's  turn  now." 

"  Dear  Countess,  what  do  you  mean?  " 

"  After  Lubomirska  there  was  Cosel,  and  after  her 
it  seems  necessary  to  choose  some  one  from  Warsaw." 

"  But  I  desire  to  remain  faithful  to  Countess 
Anna." 

"  In  Dresden,"  replied  Countess  Przebendowska  ; 
"but  in  Warsaw,  and  during  her  absence— 

The  King  smiled. 

"  Has  your  Majesty  looked  at  the  beauties  in  our 
theatres  ?  "  she  continued. 

"  No,  I  have  not !  " 

"  Then  I  will  take  the  liberty  of  attracting  your 
Majesty's  attention  to  one  of  them.  There  is  not 
another  here  prettier  or  sweeter  than  she  is.  She  is 
young,  and  has  a  beautiful  hand." 

"  Who  is  she  ?  "  asked  the  King. 

"  Countess  Denhoff,  nte  Bielinska,"  whispered  the 
lady. 

"I  do  not  remember  her,"  said  Augustus;  "but 
being  an  admirer  of  female  beauty,  I  promise  you  I 
shall  take  advantage  of  the  first  opportunity  that 
offers  to  make  the  acquaintance  of  so  charming  a  lady 
as  you  describe  this  one  to  be." 


tint 

•  of  life, 
-ka    ha-, 
King.     She  was  me 

,aid  she,  "  it  seems  as   though    it 
turn  iv 

liat  do  you  me;: 

3   Cosel,  and  after  her 
some  one  from  Wars;- 
to    remain    faithful    to     Countess 

replied   Countess  Przebendowska  ; 
:id  during  her  absence 
>miled. 
our  Majesty  looked  at  tl  ties  in 

she  continued, 
have  not ! " 

•ill  take  the  liberty  of  attracting    your 
attention    to   one   of  them.     There   is   not 
•>rettierors  ^he  is.      She  is 

;md  has  a  beautiful  hand." 
Who  is  she?  "  asked  the  King. 
"  Countess  Denhoff,  m<e  Bielinska,"   whispered  the 
lady. 

"I   do    no;  :       said   Augustus;   "but 

being  an  auty,  I  promise  you  I 

shall    t  \.       first   opportunity    that 

off;  ace  of  so  charming  a  lady 

as  you  to  be." 

The  Countess  Denhoff 


The  Countess  Cosel  195 

"  If  your  Majesty  will  do  me  the  honour  to  accept 
a  modest  supper  at  my  house,  to-morrow,  perhaps  I 
could  succeed  in  presenting  her  to  you." 

The  King  looked  at  her,  but  it  seemed  as  though 
she  did  not  notice  it,  for,  had  she,  she  must  have 
blushed,  so  ironical  was  his  glance. 

The  same  day  Countess  Bielinska  was  closeted  with 
Countess  Denhoff,  and  when  they  separated  the  latter 
was  confused,  but  at  the  same  time  happy.  Being 
accustomed  to  be  regarded  as  a  queen  in  her  own  little 
circle,  and  sure  that  everything  she  did  must  please, 
she  was  frightened  at  these  preparations  for  a  new 
fortune.  She  did  not  oppose  her  mother's  will,  but 
there  was  so  much  trouble,  and  the  frivolous  woman 
did  not  like  too  many  ceremonies. 

Flemming  and  Przebendowska  knew  that  it  was 
necessary  that  the  King  should  be  received  with  great 
splendour ;  the  modest  supper  therefore  was  altered 
to  a  magnificent  ball.  When  the  King  arrived,  he 
found  Countess  Denhoff  surrounded  by  many  beautiful 
ladies.  He  went  over  to  her  and  began  a  con- 
versation, which  did  not  succeed  at  all,  and  it  was 
noticed  that  Augustus  did  not  appear  to  be  smitten 
by  her  beauty. 

After  supper  the  King  danced  with  Countess 
Denhoff,  who  was  still  confused  and  awkward.  The 
first  impression  was  not  such  as  Flemming's  sister  had 
expected. 

After  the  reception  the  King  said  to  Vitzthum,— 

"  Have  you  seen  that  they  wish  to  seduce  me  here ; 
but  so  long  as  women  such  as  Denhoff  wish  to  com- 
pete against  Cosel,  the  latter  is  perfectly  safe." 


196  The  Countess  Cosel 

Vitzthum,  who  was  in  a  good  humour  at  the  time, 
replied, — 

"  Your  Majesty,  it  is  not  a  question  of  Countess 
Cosel's  happiness,  for  she  can  remain  in  Dresden,  and 
Madam  Denhoff  at  Warsaw.  But  it  seems  that  the 
Poles  complain  that  they  are  wronged  by  Countess 
Cosel,  and  wish  you  to  select  some  one  from  among 
them.  It  would  therefore  be  necessary  to  divide  your 
Majesty's  heart  between  Saxony  and  Poland." 

The  King  laughed. 

"  It  is  all  very  well  for  you,"  said  he,  "  but  every 
day  I  receive  letters  full  of  reproaches,  and  then  they 
try  and  tempt  me  here." 

"The  King  should  do  that  which  pleases  him." 

Augustus  did  not  need  to  be  persuaded  of  that. 

On  Countess  Bielinska's  part,  everything  that 
might  attract  the  King  was  attended  to.  The 
next  day  he  was  invited  to  supper,  and  Countess 
Denhoff  and  her  sister  amused  him  by  singing  to 
the  harpsichord. 

This  evening  Countess  Denhoff  was  more  daring, 
and  while  singing,  she  constantly  looked  across  at  the 
King,  who  liked  to  be  provoked.  Her  mother  and 
sister  helped  her,  answering  for  her,  and  choosing 
merry  subjects  of  conversation.  The  King  soon  grew 
to  like  the  house  and  the  people,  and  to  visit  them 
oftener ;  and  it  was  not  long  before  he  became 
accustomed  to  the  little  Countess,  and  fell  in  love  with 
her,  as  much  as  such  a  man  as  he  was  able. 

The  King  was  constantly  receiving  letters  from 
Cosel,  to  whom  her  enemies  purposely  communicated 
everything  :  these  letters  were  in  consequence  full  of 


The  Countess  Cosel  197 

bitter  reproaches.  At  first  the  King  used  to  reply  to 
them,  but  gradually  he  left  them  unanswered. 

In  a  conversation  with  Vitzthum,  the  King  had 
expressed  a  wish  to  get  rid  of  Countess  Cosel,  whom 
he  feared.  Flemming  determined  to  utilize  the 
remark,  and  one  evening  when  the  King  sighed,  he 
laughed. 

"  I  should  like,"  said  he,  "to  remind  your  Majesty 
of  an  old  story  which  might  perhaps  be  applied  to 
present  circumstances." 

"  For  instance  ?  "   queried  Augustus. 

"  In  old  times,"  said  Flemming,  "  before  he  met  the 
beautiful  Aurore,  the  Kurfiirst  of  Saxony  was  in  love 
with  Rechenberg.  Soon  he  wished  to  get  rid  of  her. 
Then  the  Kurfiirst  of  Saxony  asked  Chancellor  Beich- 

J 

ling  to  help  him.  Beichling  courted  the  lady,  and  the 
King  was  freed." 

"  I  doubt  if  you  would  succeed  in  the  same  way 
with  Cosel,"  said  the  King. 

"  One  could  always  try." 

"  Whom  do  you  wish  to  make  happy  with  her  ?  " 

((  I  would  leave  the  choice  to  your  Majesty's  pene- 
tration," said  Flemming. 

The  King  strode  up  and  down  the  room,  smiling 
ironically. 

"  It  is  difficult  to  choose,  for  Cosel  has  very  few 
acquaintances  who  would  even  dare  to  approach  her. 
Why  not  employ  Baron  Lowendhal,  who,  being  her 
relation  and  protege,  can  approach  her  more  easily 
than  any  one  else  ?  If  I  could  prove  to  her  that  she 
was  unfaithful,  I  should  have  a  pretext  for  breaking 
with  her," 


198 


The  Countess  Cosel 


"  I  will  employ  Lowendhal,"  said  the  General.  "  She 
has  done  a  great  deal  for  him,  but  the  King  has  done 
more ;  besides,  he  would  not  like  to  fail  with  Cosel." 

"  He  will  do  what  he  is  ordered." 

As  a  result  of  this  conversation,  a  letter  was 
despatched  to  Dresden,  to  Lowendhal,  ordering  him 
to  compromise  Cosel, 


CHAPTER  XV. 

AUGUSTUS  wished  to  get  rid  of  Cosel,  but  he  wished  to 
do  it  quietly.  Sometimes  he  regretted  her,  but  he  was 
weak  ;  he  could  not  resist  the  intrigues.  Fresh  faces 
did  with  him  what  they  pleased  ;  novelty  amused  him, 
and  he  gladly  entered  on  fresh  amours,  ended  by 
laughter  and  gaping  on  his  part,  and  tears  on  the  part 
of  others. 

The  example  of  Konigsmark,  Teschen,  Spiegel, 
Esterle,  and  many  more,  who  had  been  consoled,  and 
provided  with  comforters,  quieted  his  mind  with 
regard  to  Cosel,  although  he  well  knew  that  there  was 
a  great  difference  between  her  and  the  others.  But 
then  she  had  threatened  to  kill  him,  and  her  threats 
were  not  vain.  One  might  expect  she  would  fulfil  it. 
Orders  were  therefore  given  in  Dresden  that  Cosel's 
movements  should  be  watched  ;  they  feared  she  would 
come  to  Warsaw,  and,  knowing  the  King's  character, 
Flemmine  was  sure  that  did  Cosel  once  make  her 

O  . 

appearance,  she  would  regain  her  former  influence 
over  the  King  by  her  beauty  and  superiority. 

It  was  important  that  Lowendhal  should  act  speedily. 
Cosel  was  still  young  and  beautiful. 

One  day  Cosel's  friend,  Baron   Haxthausen,  found 


200  The  Countess  Cosel 

her  weeping ;  she  rushed  towards  him,  wringing  her 
hands  with  indignation. 

"  Could  you  believe  it ! "  she  cried,  "  that  villain 
Lowendhal,  who  owes  me  everything,  dared  to  tell  me 
he  loved  me." 

Haxthausen  could  scarcely  soothe  her. 

"  A  few  years  back,"  she  continued,  "  he  would  not 
have  dared  to  insult  me  in  that  way.  Have  you  heard 
about  that  Denhoff?" 

"Yes!  there  are  some  rumours,"  replied  Haxt- 
hausen. 

"Through  what  mud  will  they  drag  the  King!" 
said  she  sadly ;  then  she  was  silent. 

Flamming,  who  was  managing  the  whole  affair,  came 
to  Dresden.  The  King  had  ordered  him  to  get  rid  of 
the  Countess,  but  to  treat  her  with  great  respect  and 
delicacy. 

At  first  his  arrival  alarmed  Cosel,  but  after  a  few 
days,  having  persuaded  herself  that  he  seemed  anxious 
to  avoid  fresh  quarrels  with  her,  she  was  reassured. 

The  King  wished  Cosel  to  give  up  the  Palace  of 
the  Four  Seasons,  and  Haxthausen  was  deputed  to 
carry  out  this  delicate  mission.  To  his  great  surprise, 
Cosel  replied, — 

"  The  King  gave  it  to  me,  and  he  can  take  it 
back.  This  house  reminds  me  too  powerfully  of 
happy  times.  I  could  not  live  in  it,  and  would  move 
out  willingly." 

The  news  of  her  banishment  from  that  paradise 
filled  her  enemies  with  joy.  This  must  be  a  sure  sign 
that  everything  was  ended  between  her  and  Augustus. 
But  Cosel  kept  on  repeating  to  her  intimate  friends 


The  Countess  Cosel  201 

that  she  was  the   King's  wife,  and  that  he  could  not 
leave  her  thus. 

In  1/05,  while  he  was  still  in  love  with  Cosel, 
Augustus  had  made  her  a  present  of  a  lovely  country 
house  at  Pillnitz,  on  the  banks  of  the  Elbe.  The 
situation  was  very  beautiful,  but  it  was  lonely,  and 
quite  a  long  journey  from  Dresden. 

The  King  wished  to  show  Denhoff  the  magnificence 
of  his  capital,  but  feared  some  outburst  from  Cosel. 
He  therefore  wrote  to  Flemming,  telling  him  to  induce 
Cosel  to  leave  Dresden  and  take  up  her  residence  at 
Pillnitz. 

Haxthausen  was  again  chosen  as  ambassador,  and 
the  King's  letter  was  shown  to  him. 

"General,"  said  Flemming,  "the  King  wishes  to  visit 
Dresden,  but  he  cannot  come  so  long  as  Cosel  is  here. 
She  has  threatened  to  kill  him  so  many  times.  And  he 
never  likes  to  meet  those  whom  he  has  offended.  I  know 
that  Cosel  regards  me  as  her  enemy  ;  she  has  made  me 
momentarily  angry,  but  I  have  forgotten  all  about  it 
by  now.  I  should  very  much  dislike  to  push  her  to 
extremities.  Be  so  kind  as  to  go  and  induce  her  to 
leave  Dresden.  I  should  be  sorry  to  be  compelled  to 
send  her  an  order." 

Having  heard  Flemming's  sweet  words,  Haxthausen 
went.  Cosel  was  in  a  very  good  humour  ;  the  General 
began  by  joking. 

"  I  marvel  at  the  King's  bad  taste,"  said  he.  "  I  do 
not  know  this  Denhoff,  but,  from  what  I  have  heard,  I 
am  sure  that  you  will  return  in  triumph  to  your  former 
position,  provided  always  that  you  do  not  irritate  the 
King." 


202  The  Countess  Cosel 

Cosel  guessed  he  had  come  charged  with  some 
errand. 

"  Do  you  bring  me  some  command  wrapped  up  in 
flattery  ?  " 

Haxthausen  looked  at  her  sadly,  and  nodded  his 
head  to  signify  that  it  was  so. 

"  Then  speak." 

"  Flemming  has  shown  me  an  order  from  the  King, 
saying  that  you  are  to  leave  Dresden  and  go  to  Pill- 
nitz.  I  think  it  will  be  better  for  you  ;  it  will  be 
more  agreeable  for  you  than  to  see- 
Tears  dimmed  her  eyes. 

"  It  is  so  hard  !  so  very  hard  !  "  said  she  softly.  "  I 
know  that  you  are  my  friend,  and  I  can  tell  you  that 
you  have  no  idea  what  an  effort  it  will  cost  me.  Have 
you  seen  the  King's  order  ?  Do  they  not  lie  ? " 

"  Yes,  I  have  seen  it !  " 

She  flushed,  and  then  grew  angry. 

"They  do  not  know  me  !"  she  exclaimed.  "They 
will  tease  me  until  they  arouse  a  fearful  vengeance 
within  me.  They  are  mistaken  in  thinking  that  1 
shall  respect  the  man  who  thinks  that  the  crown  gives 
him  the  right  to  scoff  at  sentiment." 

Haxthausen  listened  in  silence. 

"  And  all  this,"  she  continued,  "  I  have  to  suffer  for 
such  a  woman  as  that  Denhoff,  who  has  already  had 
several  lovers.  They  wished  to  abase  the  King  that 
they  gave  him  such  a  woman  as  that." 

She  began  to  weep. 

"  Could  I  have  expected  this  ?  "  said  she,  sobbing. 
"  He  swore  that  I  had  his  heart,  he  did  not  hesitate  to 
give  up  everything  for  me,  and  I  believed  him  ;  I  was 


The  Countess  Cosel  203 

sure  of  the  future.  Three  children  unite  us,  he 
loved  them,  he  acknowledged  them ;  he  was  not 
ashamed  of  his  love  for  me.  I  was  faithful  to  him. 
I  tried  to  please  him  in  everything.  I  served  him 
like  a  slave.  And  to-day,  after  so  many  years,  I 
have  to  remain  alone,  driven  out  without  a  word  of 
good-bye,  without  a  word  of  sympathy.  Alas  !  that 
man  has  my  heart." 

In  such  passionate  outbursts  half  an  hour  passed  ;  at 
length  she  sank  on  the  sofa  exhausted. 

"  Madam,"  said  Haxthausen,  "your  anger  is  justifi- 
able, but  at  present  you  must  be  patient  and  cautious, 
so  that  you  may  not  shut  the  door  to  a  return.  You 
know  how  changeable  the  King  is  ;  you  must  win  him 
back,  but  you  must  be  patient." 

'  Then  give  me  your  advice,  my  good  friend,"  said 
Anna. 

"  Will  you  allow  me  to  speak  frankly  ?  " 

"  Yes  !  " 

"  Flemming  is  better  disposed  to  you  than  formerly. 
You  must  try  and  keep  him  in  that  frame  of  mind. 
Everything  is  changed  at  Court.  You  might  be  use- 
ful to  him.  If  you  act  quietly  now,  the  King  will  be 
grateful  to  you.  They  are  continually  frightening  him 
by  saying  that  you  threatened  to  kill  him.  The  King 
is  afraid,  and  Denhoff  will  not  venture  to  start  for 
Dresden,  being  afraid  for  her  life.  As  long  as  the 
King  thinks  that  you  are  excited  he  will  not  venture 
near  you.  The  best  way,  therefore,  is  to  show  that  you 
are  not  vehement.  Countess  Konigsmark  has  pre- 
served her  friendly  relations  with  the  King.  Princess 
Teschen  was  not  driven  from  Dresden,  while  Esterle. 


204  The  Countess  Cosel 

» 

by  her  obstinacy,  has  closed  the  entrance  to  the  palace 
to  herself  for  ever." 

"  How  dare  you  give  me  such  examples  !  "  exclaimed 
Cosel.  "  Esterle,  Konigsmark,  Teschen,  were  the 
King's  mistresses,  while  I  am  his  wife  !  You  must  not 
compare  me  with  them." 

Haxthausen  was  silent. 

"  Still,  you  are  right,"  she  continued  ;  "  I  must  not 
make  him  angry.  I  will  go  to-morrow." 

The  envoy  was  about  to  depart  with  the  good  news, 
when  Cosel  broke  forth  again, — 

"  They  would  not  dare  force  me  !  The  King  him- 
self would  not  dare  do  that !  It  cannot  be  ! " 

Haxthausen  tried  to  persuade  her  to  be  submissive, 
but  no  sooner  had  she  agreed  to  follow  his  advice  than 
she  was  again  bent  on  resistance. 

Three  or  four  times  she  changed  her  mind.  Finally 
she  said, — 

"  I  will  not  go  !     Let  them  use  force  if  they  dare  !  " 

"  Pray  think  it  over !     What  shall  I  tell  Flamming  !  " 

"  Tell  him  I  do  not  wish  to  go !  " 

The  Baron  returned  to  the  General,  and  told  him  of 
his  conversation  with  Cosel. 

Flemming  was  sorry  he  was  obliged  to  use  force  :  he 
went  to  her.  She  received  him  haughtily. 

"  You  place  me  in  a  most  awkward  position,"  said  he, 
"  for  I  wished  to  save  you  unpleasantness.  I  have  kept 
back  the  King's  order  for  several  days  ;  now  I  bring 
it  to  you  personally.  Should  you  refuse  to  obey  it,  I 
shall  be  grieved,  but  I  shall  be  compelled  to  force  you 
to  submit  to  it.  The  King  does  not  wish  to  meet  you 
in  Dresden," 


The  Countess  Cosel  205 

Looking  from  the  window,  Cosel  saw  a  detachment 
of  dragoons  standing  before  her  house.  Her  black 
eyes  gleamed  angrily,  but  she  kept  her  anger  under 
control. 

She  glanced  at  the  letter. 

"  I  am  going  at  once,"  said  she ;  "  you  can  trust  my 
word." 

Flemming  bowed  and  departed  ;  the  dragoons  fol- 
lowed him. 

An  hour  later,  Cosel,  hidden  in  a  carriage,  was 
journeying  towards  Pillnitz. 

A  few  days  later  she  had  disappeared  ;  she  was  on 
the  road  to  Warsaw.  Letters  were  immediately  dis- 
patched in  great  haste  to  Countess  Przebendowska, 
notifying  her  of  the  danger. 

Cosel's  arrival  would  change  their  well-played 
comedy  into  a  drama.  The  King  was  already  in  love, 
or  rather  entangled  by  those  ladies,  and  they  deter- 
mined to  act  at  once,  in  order  to  avoid  danger.  When 
the  King  came  to  see  Countess  Denhoff,  he  found  her 
dressed  in  black,  and  weeping. 

"What  ails  you,  my  beautiful  lady?"  he  inquired 
solicitously,  at  the  same  time  kissing  her  beautiful 
hands. 

"  Your  Majesty,"  said  Denhoff,  "I  am  threatened 
by  a  great  danger.  I  should  not  mind  death,  were  I 
persuaded  that  your  Majesty  loves  me  ;  but,  alas!  they 
wish  to  take  my  life  from  me,  together  with  your 
Majesty's  heart.  Cosel  is  coming  to  Warsaw  ;  perhaps 
she  is  already  here.  Perhaps  your  Majesty  has  come 
to  tell  me  that  I  must  yield  to  my  rival." 

"  From  whence  did  you  receive  such  news  ?  "  inquired 


206  The  Countess  Cosel 

the   King  in   surprise.     "  Still,   let   Cosel  come ;   your 
triumph  over  her  will  then  be  more  complete." 

"  No  !  no  !  "  exclaimed  Denhoff.  "  If  she  comes,  I 
leave  Warsaw." 

The  mother  was  listening  at  the  door,  waiting  for 
an  agreed  signal  to  enter.  Marie  coughed,  the  door 
opened,  and  the  Countess  entered.  She  appeared  much 
surprised  at  seeing  the  King. 

"  I  am  glad  you  are  come,"  said  Augustus.  "  You 
must  help  me  to  quiet  your  daughter." 

"  Why,  what  is  the  matter  ?  "  rejoined  the  mother, 
still  pretending  to  be  surprised. 

The  King  repeated  what  Countess  Denhoff  had  just 
told  him.  The  mother  listened,  looking  in  wonder, 
now  at  her  daughter,  now  at  Augustus. 

"  I  do  not  wonder  that  Marie  is  afraid,"  said  she. 
"  Every  one  knows  of  Cosel's  threats,  and  how  im- 
petuous she  is." 

"  Well,"  interrupted  Augustus,  "it  is  very  easy  to 
settle  matters.  If  you  wish,  I  will  order  Cosel  to  be 
sent  back  to  Dresden." 

The  old  lady  replied  to  this  with  exclamations  of 
gratitude. 

"  Marie,  you  may  well  consider  yourself  happy, 
having  such  a  solicitous  tutor." 

Then  addressing  the  King,  she  added, — 

"I  would  venture  to  observe  to  your  Majesty  that 
Countess  Cosel  will  not  obey  every  one." 

"  Choose  whom  you  please,"  replied  the  King,  much 
bored  by  the  scene. 

The  old  lady  recommended  a  Frenchman,  by  name 
Montargon,  who  had  come  over  to  Poland  with  Prince 


The  Countess  Cosel  207 

Polignac.  Half  an  hour  later  he  had  the  King's  order 
that  Cosel  was  to  be  sent  back  to  Dresden. 

"  What  am  I  to  do,  supposing  she  will  not  obey  your 
Majesty's  order  ?  "  inquired  the  Frenchman. 

The  King  looked  thoughtful ;  then,  after  a  short 
silence,  replied,— 

"  I  will  order  Captain  La  Haye  and  six  guards  to 
accompany  you ;  it  seems  to  me  that  should  be 
sufficient.'' 

The  captain  was  sent  for,  and  given  the  necessary 
orders,  and  that  same  night  the  detachment  of  soldiers 
marched  out  against  one  unarmed  woman. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

BEFORE  starting  on  her  journey,  Cosel  summoned  the 
faithful  Zaklika. 

"  All  have  forsaken  me,"  said  she  ;  "  I  have  none  on 
whom  I  can  rely." 

Zaklika  looked  gloomy. 

"Will  you  also  leave  me  ?  " 

"  I  ?     Never  !  "  he  replied  shortly. 

"  I  think  I  can  rely  on  your  noble  character,  and 
your  devotion  to  me." 

"  Always ! "  said  Zaklika,  raising  two  ringers,  as 
though  he  were  taking"  an  oath. 

"  I  wish- to  entrust  you  with  the  most  precious  thing 
that  I  possess,"  said  the  Countess,  lowering  her  voice, 
"  but  you  must  promise  me  that  you  will  sacrifice  your 
life,  rather  than  give  up  that  which  I  am  about  to  give 
you  ;  that  you  will  guard  my  honour  as— 

"  As  a  holy  relic,"  said  Zaklika,  raising  his  ringers 
a  second  time.  "  You  may  rely  on  me  !  " 

"  No  one  must  know  that  you  possess  this  thing." 

"  Do  you  wish  me  to  swear  ?  " 

"  No ;  I  believe  your  word.  But  you  must 
know  what  it  is  you  have  to  guard.  I  said  you 
would  be  the  guardian  of  my  honour.  When  the 
King  granted  me  a  divorce  from  my  husband,  he 


The  Countess  Cosel  209 

gave  me  a  written  and  sealed  promise  that  he 
would  marry  me,  otherwise  I  should  never  have 
consented  to  such  a  life.  They  will  try  to  take 
this  promise  from  me.  They  may  torture  me,  but  I 
will  never  tell  them  where  it  is.  I  cannot  conceal  it 
here,  for  they  can  banish  me,  and  it  would  not  be  safe 
to  carry  it  with  me." 

She  opened  a  mahogany  box  ornamented  with  gold, 
and  took  from  it  a  small  leather  bag  with  a  silk  cord. 

"You  will  not  betray  me!"  said  she,  looking  into 
his  eyes. 

Tears  rolled  down  Zaklika's  cheeks,  as  he  knelt 
down  before  her  and  kissed  her  hands  ;  then,  suspend- 
ing the  bag  round  his  neck,  he  said,  in  a  voice  full  of 
emotion,— 

"  This  shall  only  be  taken  from  me  with  my  life." 

"  We  are  going  on  a  journey,"  said  Cosel.  "  Things 
may  turn  out  worse  for  us  than  we  expect.  You 
must  have  money." 

She  handed  him  a  bag  of  gold. 

A  few  hours  later  Cosel  set  forth,  taking  with  her 
the  loaded  pistols  which  she  always  kept  at  hand. 

Everything  went  well  until  they  reached  Widawa,  a 
small  town  on  the  borders  of  Silesia.  Here  they  were 
obliged  to  rest.  Cosel  put  up  at  the  best  hostelry,  at 
which  there  was  a  detachment  of  cavalry.  Zaklika 
was  at  the  door  of  the  Countess's  room,  when 
Montargon  and  La  Haye  came  to  him  with  the 
request  that  he  would  announce  them  to  the  Countess, 
to  whom,  having  met  her  on  the  road,  they  were 
anxious  to  pay  their  respects. 

Cosel  was  much  surprised  at  receiving  such  a 

p 


210  The  Countess  Cosel 

message,  as  now  every  one  seemed  anxious  to  avoid 
her,  still  she  suspected  no  danger,  and  ordered  Zaklika 
to  bring  them  in. 

The  Countess  received  the  officers  courteously,  and 
as  it  was  the  hour  for  dinner,  she  invited  them  to  share 
her  modest  repast. 

Conversation  flowed  easily  during  the  meal ; 
Montargon  told  the  Countess  all  the  latest  news  from 
Warsaw  ;  at  length  he  said,— 

"  It  seems  to  me  that  your  journey  is  futile.  So  far 
as  we  know,  it  may  make  the  King  angry.  You  may 
meet  with  unpleasantness." 

Cosel  frowned. 

"What!"  she  exclaimed,  "you  dare  to  give  me 
your  advice  ?  You  pretend  to  know  the  King  better 
than  I  do,  and  to  be  a  better  judge  than  myself  of 
what  is  fitting  for  me  to  do  ?  " 

Montargon  looked  confused. 

"  Pray  excuse  me  !  "  he  muttered. 

*'  I  will  not  excuse  you  !  "  exclaimed  the  Countess, 
"  for  it  was  impertinent,  as  well  as  in  bad  taste.  Keep 
your  advice  for  those  that  need  it." 

Montargon  made  a  grimace. 

"  It  is  true,"  said  he,  "  that  you  do  not  need  advice 
from  me,  but  suppose  I  have  the  King's  order  ?  " 

"  An  order  from  the  King  ?  "  cried  Cosel. 

"  Yes." 

"Even  in  that  case  I  am  not  bound  to  obey,'1 
replied  the  Countess.  "  The  King  is  overpowered 
by  my  enemies,  he  is  doing  that  which  he  has  no  right 
to  do,  and  he  will  regret  it  afterwards.  I  am  sure  he 
will  be  glad  that  I  have  not  obeyed  him." 


The  Countess  Cosel  211 

Montargon  was  a  polite  man,  but  the  Countess's 
tone  offended  him,  so  he  replied  in  a  soft  tone  that 
made  his  words  all  the  more  offensive,— 

"  I  should  be  greatly  obliged  to  you,  Countess,  if  you 
would  spare  me  the  unpleasantness  of  employing  that 
most  simple  of  all  arguments — force." 

"What?"  exclaimed  Cosel.  "You  would  dare 
employ  force  against  me  ?  " 

"  I  have  a  formal  order  to  compel  you  to 
return  to  Dresden,"  said  Montargon,  "  and  I  shall 
obey  it." 

Then  the  Countess's  anger  burst  forth. 

"Leave  the  room!"  she  cried,  seizing  a  pistol. 
"  If  you  do  not  go,  I  will  shoot  you  through  the  head." 

Zaklika  stood  ready  on  the  threshold. 

Montargon,  who  knew  well  that  the  Countess  would 
keep  her  word,  slipped  out  quickly.  La  Haye,  who 
up  to  the  present  had  not  uttered  a  word,  remained. 
The  lesson  his  comrade  had  received  had  been  good 
for  him,  and  he  now  began  very  delicately, — 

"  Countess,"  said  he,  "ambassadors  are  never  fired 
on  ;  I  pray  you,  calm  yourself.  We  are  not  responsible 
for  bringing  such  an  unpleasant  message.  1  should  be 
in  despair,  should  I  incur  your  displeasure ;  but  for 
Heaven's  sake,  consider ;  to  a  military  man,  the 
King's  order  is  a  sacred  thing,  and  must  be  accom- 
plished." 

"  Have  you  seen  the  King  ?  "  inquired  Cosel. 

"Yes  ;  I  received  my  orders  from  his  own  lips.  I 
beseech  you  to  give  heed  to  it !  " 

This  soft  tone  completely  disarmed  Cosel,  she  sank 
trembling  into  an  arm-chair. 


212  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Be  calm,"  continued  La  Haye.     "  It  seems  to  me 
that  there  is  nothing  serious  for  you  in  all  this." 

"And  that  Denhoff?" 

"  That  is  only  a  passing  fancy,"  said  La  Haye  ; 
"  something  like  the  amour  with  Duval,  which  he  has 
already  forgotten.  Moreover,  Denhoff  is  married, 
her  husband  is  in  the  country,  and  knows  nothing  of 
ail  this  ;  should  he  learn  the  truth,  there  would  be  no 
chance  of  his  allowing  her  to  come  to  Dresden.  But 
the  King  must  return  thither,  then  you  will  see  him, 
and  regain  your  former  influence  over  him." 

Cosel  began  to  ask  questions  about  everything,  and 
La  Haye  laid  the  whole  story  before  her  in  such  a 
light,  that  he  considerably  modified  the  appearance  of 
danger  to  herself.  After  a  quarter  of  an  hour's  con- 
versation, the  Countess  was  persuaded  that  it  would 
be  better  for  her  to  return  to  Pillnitz. 

Montargon  did  not  show  himself  again,  but  sent  a 
messenger  immediately  to  the  King  with  the  good 
news.  Being  afraid,  however,  that  Cosel  might 
change  her  mind,  he  followed  her  with  La  Haye  and 
the  soldiers  from  afar,  till  they  were  sure  she  would 
not  return. 

In  the  meantime  the  Countess  Denhoff  began  to 
attract  attention  by  receiving  the  too  frequent  visits  of 
the  King.  The  respectable  people  were  scandalized 
at  the  behaviour — at  her  dishonouring  the  good  name 
of  a  married  woman,  during  her  husband's  absence. 
They  were  much  more  shocked  at  the  fact  that  her 
own  mother  was  an  intermediary  agent,  that  her  own 
sister  was  a  witness,  that  they  boasted  of  such  conduct. 
Count  Denhoff's  whole  family  began  to  press  him  to 


The  Countess  Cosel  213 

call  his  wife  to  his  country  estate  ;  and  Denhoff  sent 
her  imperative  letters,  urging  her  to  leave  Warsaw 
immediately. 

But  the  young  woman  sent  her  mother  instead. 
When  she  came  to  her  son-in-law's  chateau,  she  said 
to  him  pointedly,— 

"  You  must  not  plague  us  with  these  demands  to 
return,  for  it  cannot  be  done.  We  are  not  going  to 
give  up  the  happiness  of  our  whole  family  for  your 
fancies  ;  the  King  is  in  love  with  Marie,  and  we  intend 
to  keep  him.  Do  you  wish  me  to  bring  her  here  for 
the  sake  of  stupid  prudery,  and  neglect  our  interests  ?" 

Denhoff  was  a  man  of  the  old  school,  and  he  had 
already  heard  of  his  wife's  flightiness. 

"  Madam,"  said  he,  "  I  am  not  inclined  to  share  my 
wife's  heart  with  the  King ;  and,  frankly  speaking, 
there  would  remain  very  little  of  it  for  me,  for,  as  it 
seems,  many  people  court  your  daughter." 

"Then,"  said  the  Countess,  "you  must  either  be 
silent,  and  thus  assure  for  yourself  the  King's  favour, 
or  else  consent  to  a  divorce.  The  papal  nuncio, 
Monsignor  Grimani,  is  quite  friendly  towards  us  ;  he 
will  secure  the  divorce  in  Rome." 

"  Deliver  me  from  the  King's  favours ;  but  if  you 
would  free  me  from  my  wife,  I  shall  be  only  too  thank- 
ful to  you  for  it,"  said  the  Count. 

The  Countess  was  greatly  astonished  that  her  son- 
in-law  should  so  readily  give  up  all  chances  of  the 
King's  favour  ;  but  having  received  his  written  con- 
sent to  the  divorce,  she  returned  with  it  to  Warsaw. 
The  nuncio  wrote  to  Rome,  and  Clement  XI.  ordered 
the  divorce  to  be  granted. 


2i4  The  Countess  Cosel 

There  was  thus  no  longer  any  objection  to  Countess 
Denhoff  accompanying  the  King  to  Dresden  ;  except, 
to  be  sure,  that  Cosel  would  be  in  her  way. 

In  order  to  get  rid  of  her  rival,  Countess  Denhoff 
feigned  that  she  lived  in  continual  fear  of  her,  and  she 
incited  the  King  to  send  her  from  Pillnitz,  so  that  she 
would  not  be  able  to  return  to  Dresden.  Then 
Flemming  helped  her,  reminding  the  King  that  he 
should  take  from  her  his  promise  of  marriage,  so  that 
she  would  not  be  able  to  compromise  the  King. 
Augustus  found  he  was  right,  and  ordered  Count 
Watzdorf  to  be  written  to,  to  try  and  obtain  that  docu- 
ment from  Cosel  and  persuade  her  to  leave  Pillnitz. 

Cosel  was  obliged  to  receive  him,  knowing  that  he 
came  on  an  errand  from  the  King. 

"  The  best  proof,"  said  he,  "  that  I  wish  you  well  is 
my  coming  here.  I  would  like  to  help  you  to  come 
to  some  understanding  with  the  King  ;  but  you  must 
show  some  goodwill,  and  finish  peacefully  like  Aurore 
and  Teschen." 

Cosel  blushed. 

"Aurore  and  Teschen,"  exclaimed  she,  "were  his 
favourites,  while  I  am  his  wife.  I  have  his  written 
promise." 

Watzdorf  laughed. 

"  Ah  !  dear  Countess,"  said  he,  with  offensive 
familiarity,  "  it  is  an  old  story.  You  know  well  how 
tyrannical  passion  is ;  a  man  is  not  master  of  himself 
under  its  influence.  Our  King  also  signed  the  peace 
at  Altranstad,  but  does  not  consider  himself  bound  by 
it ;  it  is  the  same  with  his  promise  to  marry  you." 

Cosel  could  hardly  contain  her  indignation. 


The  Countess  Cosel  215 

'*  No !  I  still  believe  he  is  an  honest  man  who 
knows  what  he  does,  and  deceives  neither  himself  nor 
any  one  else." 

She  began  to  pace  to  and  fro. 

"Tell  me,  then,  frankly,"  said  Watzdorf,  "  what  are 
your  conditions  ?  The  King  is  willing  to  grant  them 
to  you,  only  you  must  not  ask  anything  impossible  or 
attach  too  much  weight  to  trifles.  You  will  give  me 
back  that  paper." 

Cosel  turned  towards  him  excitedly. 

"  Did  you  come  for  that  ? "  she  asked. 

"  Well,  yes." 

"  Then  return,"  said  Cosel  angrily  ;  "  for  as  long  as 
I  have  life  I  shall  not  surrender  that  paper  ;  it  is  a 
defence  of  my  honour,  and  that  is  more  precious  to  me 
even  than  life.  Do  you  think  I  had  consented,  for  all 
the  King's  riches,  to  stretch  out  my  hand  to  him  if  he 
had  not  given  me  the  promise  of  marriage  ? '' 

"  But  you  well  understand,"  said  Watzdorf,  "  that  it 
is  of  no  value,  for  the  Queen  is  living." 

"  Then  why  do    you  want   it  back  ?  "  asked   Cosel. 

"  You  must  be  ashamed  that   the  King  has  deceived 

» 
me. 

"  I  cannot  hear  any  reproaches  against  the  King," 
said  Watzdorf. 

"  Then  return  from  whence  you  came,"  said  Cosel, 
leaving  the  room. 

The  Count  stopped  her. 

"  Think  of  what  you  are  doing  ;  you  are  forcing  the 
King  to  be  severe  with  you.  He  can  use  force  !  You 
cannot  hide  the  paper  so  that  it  cannot  be  taken  from 

n 

you. 


216  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Let  him  try,  then,"  said  the  Countess. 

"  It  would  be  a  very  sad  extremity,"  rejoined 
Watzdorf,  "  and  we  would  like  to  avoid  it.  If  you 
oblige  us  to  use  force,  you  cannot  expect  anything 
else." 

Cosel  did  not  let  him  finish,  but  said  to  him, — 

"You  wish  me,  then,  to  sell  my  honour  ?  I  assure 
you  that  there  is  not  money  enough  in  the  King's 
treasury  to  pay  for  the  honour  of  such  a  woman  as  I 
am.  I  shall  not  return  that  document  for  anything  ! 
I  wish  to  let  the  world  know  how  I  have  been 
deceived." 

Tears  rolled  down  her  cheeks. 

"  No  !"  she  exclaimed  suddenly,  "you  lie  ;  it  can- 
not be  the  King's  will ;  you  blacken  the  King,  wishing 
to  defend  him.  I  have  not  yet  doubted  his  noble 
heart,  although  I  believe  he  is  occasionally  thought- 
less. The  King  cannot  ask  for  it." 

The  messenger  silently  took  from  his  pocket  the 
King's  letter  and  handed  it  to  the  Countess. 

She  glanced  at  it  contemptuously. 

"  If  that  which  he  signed  for  me  has  no  value  now," 
she  said,  "  what  weight  can  I  give  this  letter  ?  To- 
morrow the  King  may  ask  you  to  return  that  to  him." 

Watzdorf,  in  confusion,  replaced  the  letter  in  his 
pocket  and  said, — 

"  Countess,  I  pity  you — you  may  believe  me  or  not, 
but  I  am  sincere.  For  God's  sake,  think  of  what  you 
expose  yourself  to  !  remember  the  lot  of  many  people. 
It  is  dangerous  to  oppose  the  King." 

"  I  know  him  better  than  you,"  she  answered. 

"  I  beseech  you  !  " 


The  Countess  Cosel 


217 


•"  Spare  yourself  the  time  and  trouble,"  said  Cosel 
quietly.  "  It  is  in  vain  ;  you  can  do  less  with  me  by 
threatening  than  by  persuasion." 

She  threw  a  contemptuous  glance  at  him  and  left 
the  room. 


CHAPTER   XVII. 

HARDLY  had  the  carriage  in  which  Count  Watzdorf 
had  come  disappeared  than  Cosel  called  Zaklika  to 
her.  Being  afraid  of  spies  in  her  own  house,  Cosel 
told  him  to  follow  her  into  the  courtyard,  and  there 
she  tried  to  speak  to  him  as  if  she  were  giving  him 
some  instructions  concerning  the  house. 

Zaklika  had  guessed  her  thoughts. 

"We  are  watched  here,  are  we  not  ?"  said  Cosel. 

"  Yes,"  answered  the  faithful  servant. 

"  Can  we  deceive  them  ?" 

"  The  principal  spy  is  Gottlieb,  but  he  is  stupid." 

"  Gottlieb !  "  exclaimed  the  Countess. 

"  Yes ;  the  man  that  talks  so  much  of  his  fidelity  to 
you." 

"  In  the  city  everybody  knows  you,  I  suppose  ?  " 

"  Many  of  them  have  forgotten  me,"  answered 
Zaklika. 

"  Could  you  bring  some  news  ?  " 

"  If  I  must,  I  will." 

"  It  is  dangerous  for  me  to  remain  here,"  continued 
Cosel.  "  I  must  escape.  I  have  confidence  in  you 
alone  ;  you  must  advise  me  how  it  can  be  done  " 

Zaklika  was  silent  and  thoughtful. 

"  It  is  difficult,  but  if  we  must — " 


The  Countess  Cosel  219 

"Then,"  said  Cosel,  "I  must  take  my  jewels  and 
money  with  me." 

Zaklika  did  not  say  a  word  ;  he  pulled  his  moustache 
and  lowered  his  eyes. 

"  Could  you  assure  me  that  we  shall  be  able  to  cross 
the  frontier  before  our  escape  is  noticed  ?  " 

"  I  will  do  my  best." 

His  face  was  covered  with  perspiration  ;  it  was 
evident  that  he  doubted  the  success  of  the  enterprise, 
but  he  did  not  wish  to  show  it. 

"  We  should  have  done  it  a  long  time  ago,"  said 
he. 

He  snapped  his  fingers  and  frowned.  Cosel  looked 
at  him  with  fear  and  curiosity.  This  silent,  energetic 
man  was  so  different  from  the  others,  on  whom  she 
could  not  count ;  he  astonished,  but  at  the  same  time 
rejoiced  her.  She  felt  that  he  was  a  man. 

"I  have  a  boat,"  said  he,  "hidden  in  the  bushes. 
During  the  night  I  will  go  into  the  town  and  learn 
everything  I  can ;  then  I  will  think  how  we  could 
escape.  You  must  not  call  me — they  will  think  I  am 
shut  up  in  my  room,  as  has  happened  often  before." 

At  that  moment  Cosel  perceived  Gottlieb  stealing 
towards  them,  and  not  wishing  that  he  should  guess 
anything,  she  nodded  to  him.  The  German  swiftly 
approached. 

"  Gottlieb,"  said  she,  "  I  would  like  some  flowers 
planted,  for  I  think  I  shall  stay  here  a  long  while.  If 
you  go  into  town  you  must  try  and  get  me  a  gardener, 
for  the  Pole  says  he  does  not  know  anybody." 

Gottlieb  looked  at  them  both  as  if  trying  to  guess 
whether  she  was  speaking  the  truth,  and  began  to 


220  The  Countess  Cosel 

assure  the  Countess  that  he  would  do  anything  to 
please  his  beloved  mistress. 

Cosel  entered  the  house,  and  Gottlieb  tried  to  learn 
something  from  Zaklika,  but  it  was  in  vain. 

Towards  the  evening  the  Pole,  as  they  called  him, 
disappeared.  This  aroused  the  suspicions  of  the 
spies;  they  tried  to  open  the  door  of  his  room,  but 
found  it  locked.  The  room  was  on  the  ground  floor, 
so  they  looked  into  it  through  the  window,  opposite 
to  which  was  the  bed.  A  man  was  lying  there.  This 
quieted  the  spies,  and  they  let  him  sleep. 

In  the  meantime  Zaklika  unmoored  his  boat,  and, 
jumping  into  it,  allowed  it  to  be  carried  down  by  the 
stream,  which  bore  it  swiftly  towards  Dresden.  In  a 
couple  of  hours  he  perceived  the  lights  of  the  capital. 
He  already  knew  where  to  go  for  news. 

In  the  Dresden  Court,  where  every  one  squandered 
money,  the  bankers  were  very  important  people,  and 
among  them  was  Lehman.  He  came  from  Poland, 
he  was  a  laborious  and  honest  man,  shrewd  in  money 
transactions,  but  scrupulously  honest.  Cosel  had  sent 
Zaklika  several  times  for  him,  and  they  had  had  some 
important  transactions. 

The  Jew,  who  had  the  best  of  opportunities  for 
learning  people's  characters,  had  recognized  in  Cosel 
a  noble  soul ;  he.  had  entire  confidence  in  her,  and 
respected  her  very  much. 

Zaklika  knew  that  even  after  Cosel's  downfall 
Lehman  had  given  her  proofs  that  he  remained  faithful 
to  her,  and  he  thought  he  could  trust  him  and  ask  him 
for  advice. 

Having  left  his  boat  near  the  hostelry  of  a  Wend, 


The  Countess  Cosel  221 

as  in  those  days  there  were  still  many  of  them  in 
Dresden,  he  drew  his  hat  over  his  eyes  and  went  into 
the  town. 

When  he  had  passed  the  gates,  although  it  was  late, 
he  recognized  by  the  movement  in  the  streets  that 
there  was  an  entertainment  in  the  castle.  Z  winger 
and  the  garden  of  Hesperides  were  illuminated.  The 
King  was  giving  a  torchlight  masquerade  to  the 
Countess  Denhoff. 

Zaklika  did  not  go  near  the  castle,  but  went  directly 
to  Judenhause,  situated  in  Pirna  Street,  in  which 
Lehman  had  a  modest  house.  Zaklika  was  sure  that 
he  would  find  the  banker  alone  at  this  hour,  and  he 
was  anxious  for  nobody  to  see  him.  An  old  servant 
opened  the  door  to  him,  and  showed  him  into  a  room 
at  the  rear  of  the  house. 

Lehman,  a  quiet  man,  with  steady  black  eyes,  shook 
hands  with  him.  and,  in  reply  to  Zaklika's  inquiring 
look  round,  said,— 

"  You  are  safe  here  ;  no  one  can  spy  on  you  in  my 
house.  What  is  your  news  ? " 

"  Bad  news,"  answered  Zaklika ;  "  it  couldn't  be 
worse.  They  hunted  us  from  the  Palace,  from  the 
house  in  Dresden,  and  now  they  wish  to  drive  us  from 
Pillnitz — or  perhaps  something  worse.  We  must  help 
that  unfortunate  woman — persecuted  as  she  is  by  these 
cowardly  villains." 

"Yes,"  said  Lehman;  "but  we  must  be  careful, 
and  not  hurt  ourselves  in  the  attempt." 

"  Cosel  must  escape,"  added  Zaklika. 

"  To  where  ? "  asked  the  Jew.  "  She  would  be  safe 
only  beyond  the  seas." 


222  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  I  hope  the  King  will  not  ask  his  neighbours  for 
our  extradition." 

Lehman  moved  his  head. 

"  The  Countess,"  went  on  the  faithful  servant, 
"  must  take  what  she  can  with  her,  for  anything  she 
leaves,  the  rapacious  people  will  seize,  as  they  did  that 
which  she  left  in  the  Palace." 

The  banker  nodded. 

"  But  it  would  not  be  safe  to  carry  the  money  with 
us  in  our  flight,  for  we  might  be  caught  and  deprived 
of  everything.  You  must  help  the  Countess  to  save 
the  rest  of  her  fortune." 

"  Believe  me,"  said  the  banker,  "  I  am  willing  to 
help  the  Countess.  I  knew  her  well ;  she  was  the 
only  pearl  amid  all  that  mud  ;  but  you  must  understand 
that  it  would  not  be  right  for  me  to  endanger  myself 
and  my  family  for  her  sake." 

"  God  alone  will  know  of  your  good  deed,  and  you 

know  that   neither   I   nor  the  Countess  would  betray 

M 
you. 

"Well,  I  consent,"  said  the  Jew;  "but  you  must 
be  careful  that  nobody  sees  you  going  out,  for  I,  too, 
am  watched  by  spies." 

"  I  will  be  careful,"  said  Zaklika. 

"  Everything  you  give  me  I  will  send  you  whenever 
it  best  suits  you,''  added  the  Israelite. 

Lehman  took  from  a  sideboard  a  bottle  of  wine  and 
two  glasses. 

"  No,  thank  you,"  said  Zaklika.  "  I  must  hasten, 
for  I  want  to  learn  some  news  to  take  to  my 
mistress." 

"  It  is  always  the  same  old  story,"  said  Lehman, 


The  Countess  Cosel  223 

gloomily ;  "  those  who  drink  with  the  King  they  are  in 
favour  ;  they  enjoy  themselves  from  morning  till  even- 
ing, and  they  send  to  Konigstein  those  who  are  in  the 
way  of  their  amusement.  You  must  not  ask  for  pity 
or  heart,  for  the  least  sensitive  people  are  those  who 
are  lascivious.  The  King  uses  all  of  them,  bestows 
favours  upon  them  when  he  needs  them,  and  he 
despises  them." 

"  What  about  the  Countess  Denhoff  ?" 

"  She  gathers  money,  that's  all ;  and  it  seems  the 
King  already  thinks  of  marrying  her  to  somebody." 

Lehman  shrugged  his  shoulders. 

"  You  wish  to  learn  something,"  continued  he. 
"  Here  the  people  are  changed,  but  not  the  things  " 

They  talked  a  little  while  longer  ;  then  Lehman 
led  Zaklika  to  the  gate  at  the  rear  of  the  garden,  and 
gave  him  a  key  for  it.  Zaklika,  wrapped  in  his  mantle, 
went  on  further.  He  did  not  think  it  would  be  dan- 
gerous to  mix  with  the  crowd,  to  approach  Zwinger, 
and  see  what  was  going  on  there. 

He  was  already  in  the  street  leading  to  the  castle 
thronged  with  nobles  venitiens,  when  somebody  slapped 
him  on  the  shoulder. 

He  turned,  surprised — the  fool  Frohlich  smiled  at 
him. 

"  How  did  you  recognize  me  ?"  asked  Zaklika. 

"  Besides  the  King,  nobody  here  has  such  broad 
shoulders  as  you  have,"  whispered  Frohlich.  "  What 
are  you  doing  here  ?  I  heard  that  you  were  with 
Cosel." 

"  I  left  her,"  answered  Zaklika.  "  There  was 
nothing  to  do  after  her  downfall." 


224  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  You  are  right,"  said  the  fool;  "one  must  always 
take  care  of  one's  neck.  Then  you  returned  to 
the  King's  service — or  perhaps  you  are  with 
Denhoff?" 

"  Not  yet,"  answered  Zaklika.  "  But  tell  me,  what 
do  you  think  of  her  ?  " 

"  She  is  like  those  little  black  animals  that  jump  and 
bite,  but  which  it  is  difficult  to  catch,"  said  the  fool, 
laughing. 

They  were  still  talking  when  a  passing  Spaniard, 
with  a  mask  on  his  face,  stopped,  and  began  to  look 
attentively  at  them.  Zaklika  wanted  to  go,  when  the 
masked  man  approached  him,  raised  his  hat,  and 
seized  him  by  the  hand. 

Frohlich  disappeared  immediately. 

The  unknown  asked  Zaklika  imperatively,— 

"  What  are  you  doing  here  ?  " 

"  I  am  looking  for  a  position,"  answered  he. 

"  Do  you  no  longer  like  the  service  in  which  you 
were  formerly  ?  " 

"  They  do  not  need  my  services  there  now." 

"  What  kind  of  position  are  you  seeking  ?  " 

"  I  am  a  nobleman,"  answered  Zaklika. 

The  Spaniard  muttered  something,  then  he  said, — 

"  Where  is  Cosel  ?" 

"  Probably  in  Pillnitz — I  am  not  sure." 

"  Come  with  me." 

"Where?" 

"  Don't  ask  ;  you  are  not  afraid,  I  hope." 

Zaklika  went,  and  he  soon  noticed  that  the  stranger 
led  him  to  Flemming,  who  was  at  home,  drinking 
with  some  friends.  Masked  men  went  to  and  fro ; 


The  Countess  Cosel  2 a 5 

those  who  preferred  the  wine  remained.  Flemming 
expected  the  King.  There  was  a  great  noise  in  the 
house. 

The  Spaniard  entered,  and  whispered  something  to 
Flemming,  who  then  came  to  Zaklika,  and  conducted 
him  to  a  separate  room.  The  Spaniard  followed 
them. 

"  When  did  you  leave  Cosel  ?  "  asked  he. 

"  A  few  days  ago." 

"  What  was  she  doing  then  ?" 

"  She  was  settling  in  Pillnitz." 

"  Does  she  intend  to  stay  there  ?  " 

"  I  think  so." 

"  Why  did  you  part  from  her  ? " 

Zaklika  understood  that  he  must  win  their  con- 
fidence, and  he  answered, — 

"  She  dismissed  me,  for  now  she  does  not  need 
many  servants." 

"  Do  you  know  Pillnitz  well — the  people  and  the 
roads?" 

"Very  well  indeed!" 

"  Would  you  accept  another  service  ?  " 

"Why  not?" 

"  Even  were  you  obliged  to  act  against  your  former 
mistress  ?  " 

"  The  King  is  my  only  master,"  said  Zaklika,  "  for 
I  am  a  nobleman." 

Flemming  laughed. 

"  Come  to  me  in  two  days,"  said  he. 

"  Very  well." 

Flemming  wanted  to  give  him  some  money  ;  but 
Zdklika  refused  to  accept  it,  and  withdrew. 

g 


226  The  Countess  Cosel 

Thus  he  was  sure  he  had  two  days  in  which  to  save 
his  beloved  lady. 

He  wrapped  himself  in  his  mantle,  and  visited  some 
friends  in  the  suburbs ;  then  he  took  his  boat  and  went 
towards  Pillnitz,  sculling  hard  against  the  current  of 
the  river. 


CHAPTER   XVIII. 

AMONG  other  items  of  news  that  Zaklika  gathered 
was  this — that  the  next  day  another  masquerade  was 
going  to  be  given  in  the  old  market  square.  There 
was  not  a  day  without  either  concert,  opera  or  ballet, 
or  some  kind  of  entertainment.  Musicians  brought 
from  Italy,  singers,  and  composers,  were  so  well 
selected  that  Dresden  Theatre  was  the  first  in  Europe. 
Lotti  was  the  musical  composer  ;  Tartini  gave  con- 
certs ;  Santa  Stella  was  prime,  donna,  Durastanti  was 
called  the  princess  of  opera  singers ;  Senesino  and 
Berselli  were  famous  tenors ;  Aldrovandini  painted 
scenery  ;  Bach  was  musical  director. 

Distractions  were  not  lacking.  The  King  himself, 
very  often  masked  and  disguised,  took  part  in  these 
entertainments,  for  he  was  fond  of  incident,  and 
willingly  bore  the  unpleasantness  of  such  amusements. 
The  King  sent  round  numerous  orders,  for  he  wanted 
to  see  the  square  crowded.  The  preparations  had 
commenced  on  the  preceding  night. 

Zaklika  arrived  at  Pillnitz  at  dawn,  and  found  every- 
body sleeping  ;  he  entered  his  room  unperceived,  and 
waited  there  until  his  mistress  should  get  up. 

As  soon  as  he  noticed  the  windows  of  her  chamber 
were  open  he  began  to  walk  under  them  until  the 


228  The  Countess  Cosel 

Countess   had   seen  him,  and   went   out  to   talk   with 
him. 

Zaklika  reported  everything  to  her  exactly,  especially 
his  conversation  with  Lehman.  He  suggested  that 
the  best  way  would  be  to  carry  the  money  and  jewels 
to  Dresden  during  the  day,  so  as  not  to  arouse  any 
suspicions.  The  heavy  boxes  would  have  required 
two  or  three  men  to  carry  them  ;  but  Zaklika,  being  of 
extraordinary  strength,  could  manage  them  alone. 

The  Countess  consented  to  everything.  Horses 
hired  by  Zaklika  were  to  wait  for  them  at  dusk  in  the 
forest  on  the  shore  of  the  Elbe.  He  hoped  her 
departure  would  not  be  noticed  before  he  reached 
Dresden,  and  that  they  would  be  in  Prussia  before  the 
pursuit  commenced.  Once  on  foreign  soil,  Zaklika 
expected  they  would  not  be  molested.  Zaklika  was 
hopeful  of  accomplishing  their  escape,  and  he  rejoiced 
at  the  thought,  but  when  Cosel  told  him  that  she 
would  stop  in  Dresden  and  glance  at  the  masquerade, 
he  turned  pale. 

"  It  cannot  be,"  said  he.  "  You  would  throw  your- 
self into  the  lion's  jaws  !  They  would  recognize  you, 
and  then — " 

Cosel  shook  her  head. 

"  I  want  to,  and  it  must  be  done,"  said  she.  "  I 
must  see  him — it  is  not  a  fancy,  but  a  need,  a 
medicine.  I  must  look  at  them  in  order  to  shake  off 
the  longing  from  me,  and  learn  to  despise  the  man 
whom  I  loved." 

"  But  you  expose  yourself— 

"  I  know  it,"  interrupted  Cosel.  "They  could  seize 
me  and  shut  me  in  Konigstein  or  some  other  castle ; 


The  Countess  Cosel  229 

they  could  kill  me,  but  I  must  be  there.  To  defend 
my  life  I  shall  carry  a  weapon — the  rest  you  must 
leave  to  me." 

Zaklika  wrung  his  hands,  but,  knowing  Cosel,  said 
not  a  word  more. 

The  Countess  entered  the  house  in  order  to  pack 
what  she  wanted  to  give  him ;  Zaklika  went  to 
Gottlieb  to  tell  him  to  have  a  carriage  ready  to  take 
different  things  to  the  Countess's  children  to  Dresden. 
Happily  the  German  did  not  suspect  anything. 
Zaklika  chose  a  groom  who  was  stupid  and  not 
acquainted  with  Dresden.  He  himself  put  the  boxes 
in  the  van,  covered  them  carefully,  and  they  went  on. 

On  the  road,  for  further  safety,  he  made  the  groom 
drunk,  so  that  when  they  came  to  the  capital,  he  did 
not  know  by  which  streets  they  went.  At  Lehman's 
house  he  opened  the  gate  with  the  key  the  Jew  had 
given  him,  took  down  the  boxes,  and  carried  them  into 
the  banker's  room.  Not  a  soul  noticed  him.  When 
he  returned  to  the  van,  the  groom  was  asleep  ;  there- 
fore he  seized  the  reins  and  returned  to  Pillnitz. 

In  the  meantime,  Cosel  was  taking  leave  of  Pillnitz, 
gathering  her  things,  writing  her  letters,  and  every- 
thing she  was  obliged  to  do  in  such  a  way  that  none 
of  the  servants  might  see  her  doing  it  and  betray  her 
before  the  time.  Dinner  was  served  at  the  usual  hour, 
when  at  that  moment  the  Counts  Friesen  and  Lagnasco 
came  from  Dresden,  to  make  sure  of  what  she  was 
doing. 

Cosel  had  so  much  strength  that  she  received  them 
with  almost  a  merry  mien  and  without  betraying  her 
secret.  She  pretended  to  be  resigned  to  her  fate,  to 


230  The  Countess  Cosel 

be  occupied  with  her  garden  and  house,  and  perfectly 
indifferent  to  all  that  was  going  on  in  Dresden. 

She  played  her  role  so  well,  that  the  two  gentlemen 
were  perfectly  deceived.  Count  Friesen  asked  her  to 
lend  him  quite  a  sum  of  money.  Cosel,  smiling,  said 
to  him,— 

"  My  dear  Count,  I  am  poorer  than  you  would 
imagine.  It  is  the  King's  custom  to  take  away  that 
which  he  has  given  ;  at  any  moment  I  may  lose 
everything  I  possess.  I  am  sorry,  but  I  cannot  help 
you." 

Friesen  accepted  the  excuse  without  being  angry. 

The  guests,  chatting  about  Court,  amusements,  the 
King,  remained  till  evening.  Happily  they  were 
obliged  to  return  for  the  masquerade,  for  the  King 
would  not  forgive  them  their  absence,  and  they  look 
their  leave  and  departed. 

Dusk  was  beginning  to  fall,  and  the  Countess, 
complaining  of  headache,  announced  to  the  servants  that 
she  would  retire  very  early.  Zaklika  gave  orders  that 
everything  should  be  quiet,  and  Cosel  locked  herself 
in  her  chamber. 

When  darkness  had  completely  fallen  on  the  earth, 
Zaklika,  armed  with  pistols,  rapped  at  the  door  leading 
into  the  garden.  A  figure  dressed  in  black  slipped 
out  and  seized  Zaklika's  arm.  They  went  towards  the 
Elbe,  where  they  entered  a  boat  together,  and  were 
soon  flying  down  the  stream.  In  about  a  quarter  of 
an  hour  they  landed,  and  found  a  carriage  and  four. 
In  those  adventurous  times,  no  one  was  astonished  at 
a  woman  escaping  at  night. 

Zaklika,   having   put    Cosel    into    the   carriage,   sat 


The  Countess  Cosel  231 

beside  the  driver,  and  they  drove  to  Dresden,  alighting 
at  a  certain  hostelry  where  another  carriage  was  ready 
for  them.  Zaklika  tried  once  more  to  persuade  the 
Countess  to  give  up  her  plan  of  visiting  the  masquerade 
in  the  market  place  ;  but  she  did  not  want  to  listen. 
He  was  obliged  to  put  on  a  mask  and  a  domino  and 
accompany  her. 

That  day  the  streets  were  a  scene  of  still  greater 
animation.  The  houses  in  the  street  leading  to  the 
castle  were  ornamented  with  flags  and  tapestry  and 
lighted  with  lanterns.  The  street  was  so  crowded 
with  people,  carriages,  and  litters  that  it  was  difficult 
to  move  about. 

When  they  came  to  the  market  square,  they  found 
it  thronged  with  people.  Music  was  playing  in  the 
galleries.  Round  the  square  stood  booths,  in  which 
ladies  dressed  in  oriental  costumes  were  selling  toys, 
drinks  and  dainties.  Thousands  of  lamps  threw  their 
light  on  a  kaleidoscopic  crowd  of  masks  and  dominoes. 
Singing,  music,  bells,  laughter,  shouting — all  con- 
tributed their  quota  to  the  general  hubbub.  In  the 
windows  of  the  houses  one  could  see  overdressed 
women,  and  here  and  there  sombre  figures  of  poor 
people,  who  were  obliged  to  look  on  from  their 
miserable  dwellings  at  this  luxury  and  listen  to  the 
wild  outbursts  of  laughter. 

At  the  end  of  the  street,  Cosel  stopped — she  had 
not  strength  to  advance  further.  Zaklika  seized  the 
opportunity  and  begged  her  to  return.  Instead  of 
answering,  she  moved  forward,  looking  keenly  around 
her. 

A  few  steps  in  front  of  her  stood  a  noble  vtnitien. 


232  The  Countess  Cosel 

He  wore  a  black  hat  with  feathers,  a  black  velvet 
dress,  a  small  mask  and  a  golden  chain.  Around  him 
swarmed  many  masques. 

Cosel  recognized  Augustus — Hercules  and  Apollo 
that  he  was,  there  was  no  mistaking  him.  She 
hesitated  for  a  moment — then  went  up  to  him. 

Although  her  dark  domino  disguised  her  well,  it 
could  not  entirely  conceal  her  identity  from  any  one  who 
knew  her  well.  The  King  glanced  at  her  and  shivered, 
but  did  not  wish  to  believe  his  own  eyes. 

Cosel  passed  him  casually  several  times.  Augustus 
drew  towards  her  and  made  as  if  he  would  speak  to 
her,  but  fear  held  him  back.  She  challenged  him  with 
a  look,  and  he  went  up  to  her. 

The  conversation  began  in  French  ;  the  Countess 
changed  her  voice,  which  was  trembling.  Augustus 
did  not  take  that  trouble,  and  began  to  look  at  her 
attentively. 

"  Upon  my  honour,"  said  he,  "  beautiful  mask,  I 
flatter  myself  that  I  know  every  one  of  you  here, 
but—" 

"  You  do  not  know  me.'' 

"  And  do  you  know  who  I  am  ?  " 

"  Yes,  I  know  you." 

"Who,  then,  am  I  ?  " 

Her  voice  trembled,  then  the  words  flew  straight  to 
his  ear,— 

"An  executioner." 

The  King  drew  himself  up  haughtily. 

"A  bad  joke,"  said  he. 

"  No,  an  honest  truth !  " 

"  If  you   know  who   I   am,"   said  he,  "but   dare   to 


The  Countess  Cosel  233 

speak  that  way  to  me,  then  I  would  say  that  I  too 
know  who  you  are  ;  but  it  cannot  be." 

"  No,  you  do  not  know  me,"  said  Cosel,  laughing. 

"  That  is  what  I  think.  You  cannot  be  the  one 
whom  I  take  you  for,  for  that  one  would  not  dare  to 
come  here  without  my  permission." 

"A  woman  would  not  dare  to  come  here?"  said 
Cosel.  "  A  woman  would  ask  your  permission  ?  " 

And  she  laughed. 

The  King  shivered,  as  if  he  recognized  the  laugh  ; 
he  seized  her  hand,  but  she  withdrew  it  quickly. 

"  Beautiful  mask,"  said  Augustus,  "  you  perplex  me, 
and  you  pretend  to  know  me." 

"  No,  I  clo  not  know  you,"  answered  Cosel.  "Some 
time  ago  I  knew  somebody  who  resembled  you  ;  but 
that  one  had  a  noble  heart  and  the  soul  of  a  hero, 
while  you— 

The  King  became  angry. 

"  Mask,"  cried  he,  "  this  surpasses  the  limits  of 
carnival  freedom." 

"  The  freedom  is  boundless." 

"  Then  go  on,"  said  the  King,  "  and  I  ?  " 

11  You  ?  " 

Cosel's  voice  failed  her  for  a  moment,  then  she 
proceeded, — 

"  If  you  are  not  an  executioner,  then  you  are  a 
plaything  in  the  hands  of  your  executioners." 

"  Cosel  !  "  cried  Augustus,  seizing  her  hand. 

"  No,  no  ! "  she  cried,  pulling  away  her  hand  and 
laughing  ironically  behind  the  mask.  "  How  could 
she  be  here  and  suffer  to  look  at  her  funeral  banquet  ? 
I  have  seen  the  woman  whose  name  you  have 


234  The  Countess  Cosel 

pronounced.  There  is  nothing  in  common  between 
her  and  me.  Cosel  is  killed  and  buried  by  her  wicked 
enemies,  while  I  am  alive." 

The  King  listened  gloomily.  Suddenly  Cosel  drew 
near  to  him  and  whispered  a  few  words  into  his  ear, 
and,  before  Augustus  could  overcome  his  surprise,  she 
had  disappeared. 

The  King  wanted  to  follow  her,  but  she,  protected 
by  Zaklika,  vanished  in  the  crowd  and  hurried  behind 
the  booths.  Here  she  turned  her  black  mantle,  which 
was  lined  with  red,  and  then  went  back  into  the 
square  from  another  side.  She  went  straight  to  where 
she  expected  to  meet  the  Countess  Denhoff. 

There  were  three  booths  opposite  the  town  hall.  In 
one  of  them,  ornamented  in  the  Neapolitan  aqua- 
fresca  style,  was  sitting  the  Countess  Pociej  ;  beside 
her  stood  Count  Friesen  with  a  guitar,  the  Countess 
Bielinska,  disguised  as  a  Venetian  lady,  and  the 
Countess  Denhoff  in  a  Neapolitan  costume,  glittering 
with  precious  stones.  She  was  a  little  woman,  with  a 
withered  face  and  painted  cheeks.  Her  booth  was 
surrounded  by  young  men,  among  whom  the  most 
conspicuous  was  the  French  ambassador,  Besenval,  who 
was  making  her  laugh  with  his  witticisms. 

Cosel  succeeded  in  getting  a  good  view  of  her.  The 
Countess  Denhoff,  under  the  influence  of  her  intent 
look,  shivered.  Cosel  stretched  out  her  beautiful  hand 
for  a  glass  of  the  lemonade  which  Denhoff  was  selling. 

"  Beautiful  lady,"  said  Cosel,  "  have  pity  on  me,  I 
am  thirsty — I  do  not  ask  for  alms,  for  I  know  that  you 
ask  to  be  paid  well  for  everything." 

She  showed  a  gold  piece  of  money. 


The  Countess  Cosel  235 

Denhoff,  as  if  she  guessed  a  threat,  handed  her  a 
glass  of  lemonade  with  trembling  hand. 

"  One  word  more/'  said  Cosel,  drawing  near.  "  Look 

•  " 
at  me  ! 

Having  siid  this,  she  took  off  her  mask  in  such  a 
way  that  only  Denhoff  could  see  her. 

"  Look  at  me,  and  remember  my  face;  it  is  the  face 
of  a  foe  whose  curses  will  follow  the  inconstant  coquette 
to  the  grave.  Look  at  me  ;  I  am  the  same  of  whom 
you  were  afraid,  whom  you  wanted  to  imprison,  whom 
you  robbed  of  the  King's  heart,  who  will  curse  you  day 
and  night.  Remember  that  you  shall  meet  a  worse  lot 
than  I.  I  go  away  pure,  innocent,  betrayed  ;  you  will 
go  from  here  soiled,  without  honour,  an  outcast  of 
the  outcasts.  I  wanted  to  see  you  and  tell  you  that  I 
know  the  blackness  of  your  character." 

Denhoff  was  frightened,  and  began  to  faint.  There 
was  a  great  disturbance  round  the  booth  ;  the  King 
rushed  to  it ;  but  Cosel  escaped  adroitly  and  disappeared 
with  Zaklika  up  a  side  street. 

They  heard  behind  them  a  tumult  of  voices,  the 
wave  of  crowding  people  shouting  and  soldiers  calling. 
Zaklika  had  his  pistols  ready.  Cosel  walked  swiftly  in 
front  of  him.  The  noise  grew  fainter.  Knowing  the 
streets  well,  Zaklika  was  able  to  conduct  Cosel  safely  to 
the  gate  of  the  city.  Unhappily,  before  they  reached  it, 
there  came  an  order  to  close  it  and  not  let  any  woman 
pass. 

Having  learned  this,  Zaklika  led  Cosel  to  Lehman's 
house.  They  found  the  banker  at  home,  sitting 
quietly  with  his  family.  Both  entered  quietly,  and 
Zaklika  asked  for  men's  clothes  for  Cosel.  Lehman 


236  The  Countess  Cosel 

gave  him  a  black  mantle  and  an  old  hat,  and,  shivering 
with  fear,  he  let  them  out  by  the  back  door.  In  the 
street  they  met  a  detachment  of  soldiers.  The  officers 
were  dismounted,  and  walking  in  the  street.  Zaklika 
took  the  Countess's  arm  and  led  her  along  the  middle 
of  the  street.  Cosel  dropped  her  head,  and  covered 
her  face  with  the  brim  of  her  hat. 

When  they  came  near  the  soldiers,  some  of  them 
looked  at  them  attentively,  but  did  not  stop  them. 
They  overheard  the  conversation  of  the  officers,  who 
said, — 

"  Has  somebody  stolen  the  most  precious  jewel  ?  " 

"Ha!  ha!  ha!  They  seek  Cosel,  who  avenged 
herself  on  the  King." 

"  Cosel !  but  she  does  not  exist  now." 

"  They  are  still  afraid  of  her." 

"  When  Teschen  fell  into  disgrace,  nobody  thought 
of  her  any  more,  but  Cosel  still  rules,  for  they  shiver  at 
the  mere  mention  of  her  name." 

The  others  laughed. 

An  hour  later  a  carriage  rolled  towards  the  Prussian 
frontier.  Cosel  was  thinking  of  her  last  adventures, 
while  Zaklika,  sitting  beside  the  driver,  listened  to  hear 
if  they  were  being  pursued  ;  but  they  were  looking  for 
Cosel  in  Dresden  and  Pillnitz. 


CHAPTER   XIX. 

AT  the  beginning  of  the  eighteenth  century  Berlin  was 
a  small  city.  It  had  only  been  recently  built,  and  its 
principal  characteristic  was  cloister-like  order  and 
tranquility.  It  was  full  of  soldiers.  Everything  was 
prescribed,  the  business  transactions  as  well  as  the 
pleasures.  No  other  city  could  be  more  melancholy, 
after  gay  Dresden,  than  was  Berlin.  In  the  larger 
streets  there  were  rows  of  houses,  built  there  by  order. 
The  city  was  quiet  and  empty,  although  it  already  had 
five  districts  and  large  poor  suburbs.  Here  and  there 
stood  palaces  built  in  a  pretentious  but  tasteless  style. 
In  Spandau  shone  the  Queen's  Montbijou  ;  in  Stralause, 
the  King's  Belveder. 

Here  everything  was  new,  like  the  state  itself:  the 
oldest  buildings  were  thirty  years  old.  A  few  statues 
were  erected  in  this  desert ;  a  couple  of  large  squares 
were  waiting  for  animation. 

One  bridge  had  been  built  across  the  Spree — it  was 
called  "  New  Bridge,"  and  instead  of  Henry  IV.,  they 
put  on  it  the  Elector  Friedrich  Wilhelm.  They  began 
to  build  the  King's  castle,  and  its  architect,  Schluter, 
ornamented  it  with  so  many  garlands,  that  its  walls 
could  not  be  seen  beneath  them. 

Berlin  had  then   the  beginnings  of  a  great  city ;  it 


238  The  Countess  Cosel 

wanted  only  life  and  people.  A  theatre,  library,  and 
museum  were  hurriedly  built,  and  filled  as  they  could 
with  what  they  could.  In  the  meantime  they  did  not 
spend  their  gold  in  manufacturing  porcelain  ;  they  pur- 
chased soldiers  instead,  paying  their  weight  in  gold  for 
them.  And,  in  fact,  the  most  interesting  thing  in  Berlin 
was  the  army — drilled  like  a  machine,  regular  as  a 
watch,  moving  like  one  man. 

Here  one  could  see  the  battalion  of  the  biggest  and 
tallest  grenadiers — the  most  famous  in  the  world- 
composed  of  men  of  every  nationality,  and  an  example 
of  the  perfection  that  the  mechanics  of  militarism  can 
reach.  Those  big  grenadiers  were  well  paid,  although 
the  strictest  economy  was  applied  to  other  things. 

Berlin,  after  Dresden,  looked  like  a  monastery  after 
a  theatre.  When  Cosel's  carriage  entered  the  streets 
of  the  capital,  and  the  beautiful  Countess  glanced  at 
those  dusty  and  empty  thoroughfares,  her  heart  was 
ready  to  break  ;  but  she  expected  to  find  peace  here  : 
here  she  wanted  to  wait  for  the  change  of  her  lot. 

A  servant  sent  ahead  had  already  rented  a  house, 
which,  after  the  palaces  she  was  used  to,  appeared  poor 
to  her,  although  it  was  only  cold  and  uninhabited. 

The  next  day  Zaklika  arranged  it  as  comfortably  as 
he  could,  while  Cosel  sat  in  a  corner  and  dreamed  of 
her  brilliant  past. 

But  in  Berlin  nobody  could  remain  incognito.  The 
third  day  Zaklika  announced  to  her  the  visit  of  Marshal 
Wartesleben,  the  governor  of  Berlin  ;  and  another 
marshal,  Natymer,  commandant  of  the  gendarmes, often 
passed  through  the  street  and  looked  at  the  house. 

It  was  known  in  high  circles  that  the  dweller  in  that 


The  Countess  Cosel  239 

house  was  the  Countess  Cosel,  and  her  arrival  was  agree- 
able, for  they  knew  also  that  a  considerable  amount  of 
money  came  for  her  to  the  banker  Liebmann.  Not- 
withstanding the  good  relations  existing  between 
Dresden  and  Berlin,  Cosel  would  not  expect  still  to  be 
persecuted  here.  Only  here,  in  that  silent  solitude, 
amid  the  city  that  slept  at  dusk,  did  her  misfortune 
appear  in  its  full  size. 

Her  heart  was  filled  with  bitterness.  She  spent  the 
days  sitting  motionless,  looking  at  the  wall  and  think- 
ing about  her  past. 

She  was  asking  herself  whether  it  was  possible 
that  one  could  forget  true  love,  and  pay  for  happy 
moments  with  ingratitude.  The  King's  character 
seemed  to  be  a  monstrous  conundrum.  She  recol- 
lected his  tenderness,  the  proofs  of  his  attachment  to 
her,  his  oaths — and  she  could  not  understand  how  he 
could  change. 

She  had  doubts  about  the  man,  who  seemed  to  her 
to  be  a  wild  animal.  She  could  not  understand  how 
he  could  go  back  on  the  past,  and  contradict  his  former 
conduct  towards  her.  She  asked  herself  whether  she 
had  done  anything  so  bad  that  she  might  look  upon  her 
present  downfall  as  a  penance  for  her  sins. 

A  few  days  later  Zaklika  entered  her  room,  although 
she  had  not  called  him.  Cosel  looked  at  his  sad  face, 
and  asked,— 

<(  Some  bad  news  ?  " 

"It  seems  that  there  is  no  good  news  for  you  in  this 
world,"  answered  he.  "  Spies  already  surround  the 
house,  and  I  wanted  to  tell  you  to  be  careful.  If  I  am 
not  mistaken,  sooner  or  later  somebody  will  come  and 


240  The  Countess  Cosel 

offer  you  his  friendship  ;  you  must  be  careful  what  you 
say." 

The  Countess  frowned. 

"  You  ought  to  know  me  by  this  time,  I  cannot  lie 
even  by  silence.  I  had  the  courage  to  tell  him  the 
truth  to  his  face  ;  I  shall  have  it  now,  and  shall  tell  the 
truth  to  any  one  who  is  willing  to  listen." 

"  What  benefit  will  it  be  to  you  to  make  them  angry  ?" 
said  he  sadly. 

The  stubborn  woman  said  not  a  word  more,  and 
Zaklika  left  the  room. 

Three  days  after  this  an  elegant  young  man  asked 
to  be  announced  to  the  Countess. 

It  was  the  Baron  von  Sinen. 

The  Countess  knew  him  well  in  Dresden,  and  she 
told  the  servant  to  show  him  in. 

He  said  he  was  very  much  surprised,  while  visiting 
Berlin,  to  hear  the  Countess  was  there. 

Cosel  looked  ironically  into  his  eyes  and  asked,— 

"And  where  were  you  when  I  was  leaving 
Saxony?" 

'•  I  was  in  Dresden  the  very  evening  that  you  made 
that  poor  thing  Denhoff  faint  ;  but  then  I  could  not 
inquire  what  had  become  of  you. " 

"  I  am  glad  you  could  forget  me,"  said  Cosel,  "  as  I 
do  not  wish  for  anything  but  to  be  forgotten." 

"  I  think,"  said  Von  Sinen,  "  that  they  would  be  glad 
also  to  be  certain  that  you  have  forgotten  the  wrongs 
they  did  to  you." 

There  was  silence  for  a  moment,  then  Von  Sinen 
whispered, — 

"  I  could  tell  you  much  interesting  news." 


The  Countess  Cosel  241 

It  seemed  that  he  wanted  to  gain  Cosel's  confi- 
dence. 

"  I  am  not  curious,"  said  Cosel,  smiling  sadly.  "  I 
have  no  interest  in  anything  now." 

"  We  enjoy  ourselves  immensely,"  continued  Von 
Sinen,  as  if  he  had  heard  nothing.  "  It  is  nothing 
new  to  you,  who  participated  in  so  many  splendid 
feasts  ;  but—  Evidently  he  wanted  to  make  her 
speak.  Cosel  was  silent. 

"  The  place  is  very  well  known  to  you,"  continued 
the  Baron,  "  for  in  Laubegast — " 

"  I  lived  there  happily,"  whispered  Cosel. 

"  Flamming  gave  a  great  feast  to  the   King    and 

Denhoff — on  the  plain   near   Laubegast,  opposite  Pill- 

•  ^    » 
nitz. 

"  Ah  !  "  exclaimed  Cosel. 

"  In  the  first  place  six  regiments  went  there,"  con- 
tinued the  visitor.  "  On  the  hills  they  placed  cannon, 
and  disposed  the  army  in  such  a  way  that  the  Court 
might  see  the  imitation  of  a  battle.  Everything 
succeeded  admirably.  The  regiments  advanced  firing, 
and  although,  with  the  exception  of  a  few  who  were 
trampled  on,  nobody  was  killed,  one  could  have  sworn 
the  battle  was  a  real  one.  The  King  was  looking  at 
the  spectacle,  Denhoff  was  beside  him,  he  was  sur- 
rounded by  a  splendid  Court." 

Cosel  smiled  ironically. 

"  Not  far  off  they  put  up  magnificent  tents.  Under 
one  of  them  the  King  dined  with  the  Countess 
Denhoff,  Pociej,  Bielinska,  and  the  cream  of  the 
Court." 

"  Were  you  there  ?"  asked  Cosel  sneeringly. 

R 


242  The  Countess  Cosel 

The  Baron  blushed. 

"  No,  I  was  in  another  tent,"  replied  he  ;  "  but  I 
saw  everything  very  well.  Several  bands  of  music 
played  during  the  dinner,  and  every  toast  was 
announced  by  a  salvo  of  cannon." 

"  How  charming  !  "  interrupted  Cosel.  "  And  that 
is  the  end  of  it  ?  " 

"  No,  it  is  only  the  beginning.  When  the  dinner 
was  over  they  did  not  clear  the  tables,  as  Flemming 
wanted  to  give  the  rest  to  the  soldiers  ;  but  as  there 
was  not  enough  bread  for  them,  he  ordered  a  silver 
thaler  to  be  put  in  every  small  piece  of  bread.  Then 
they  sounded  the  bugle  for  the  attack.  The  soldiers 
marched  in  military  order  towards  the  tables,  but  the 
first  ranks  were  broken  by  the  following,  the  second 
by  the  third,  and  so  on.  The  tables  were  upset,  heaps 
of  soldiers  were  sprawling  on  the  ground.  The  spec- 
tacle was  magnificent ;  we  split  our  sides  with  laughter. 
Then  the  retreat  was  sounded. 

"When  evening  came,  dancing  began,  and  lasted  till 
seven  o'clock  in  the  morning.  During  the  whole  time 
Flemming  was  going  from  guest  to  guest  with  a 
bumper,  praying  them  to  drink.  He  himself  was 
drunk  first,  and  when  the  King  started  to  go,  he  threw 
his  arms  round  his  neck  and  exclaimed,  '  Brother,  dear 
brother,  if  you  leave  me  now,  our  friendship  is  gone,' 
and  to  our  great  surprise  the  King  was  not  offended 
at  such  familiarity." 

"  For  he  did  not  want  to  spoil  his  amusement,"  said 
Cosel,  laughing  sarcastically.  "  But  when  he  is  tired 
of  a  man  he  only  nods,  the  man  disappears  and  the 
comedy  is  over," 


The  Countess  Cosel  243 

She  began  to  walk  to  and  fro.     The  Baron  said,— 

"I  do  not  wonder  at  your  bitterness." 

"Yes,"  she  broke  in,  "  if  I  had  no  heart — if  I  did 
not  feel  the  wrong,  but  tried  to  make  a  bargain  of  it, 
I  could  talk  differently.  But  I  did  not  profit  by  the 
example  left  for  me  by  Haugwitz,  Aurora,  Esterle  and 
Teschen,  who  went  hand  in  hand  at  Leipzig  fair." 

She  laughed  spasmodically. 

"  No,  I  am  different.  I  thought  there  were  hearts, 
souls,  consciences  ;  that  love  was  not  lechery,  that 
promises  ought  lo  be  kept,  that  the  King's  words  were 
holy.  All  that  was  only  my  illusion.  Consequently, 
while  the  other  women  are  happy,  I  am  dying  of 
humiliation,  longing,  and  shame." 

The  Baron  von  Sinen  was  moved  and  confused  by 
the  complaints  of  that  still  beautiful  woman.  Cosel 
noticed  it. 

"  Listen,"  said  she,  "  I  know  that  you  came  here 
neither  from  curiosity  nor  in  sympathy,  but  by 
order." 

"  Madam  !  "  exclaimed  he. 

"  Do  not  interrupt  me,  but  listen  !  I  forgive  you, 
for  every  one  of  you  cares  more  for  a  career  than  to 
be  men.  Repeat  to  them  what  you  have  heard  from 
me  ;  let  them  know  what  I  think  of  them  ;  and  if  you 
wish  to  be  well  rewarded,  tell  the  King  that  you  have 
heard  from  Anna  Cosel's  own  lips  that  she  will  do  as 
she  told  him,  she  will  shoot  him  for  his  treachery  and 
unfaithfulness.  In  one,  two,  ten  years,  the  first  time  I 
meet  Augustus,  I  shall  fire  at  him.  I  always  have  a 
pistol  with  me,  and  shall  not  discard  it  until  I  have 
accomplished  my  vengeance," 


244  The  Countess  Cosel 

The  Baron  was  mortally  pale. 

"  Countess,"  he  exclaimed,  "  you  force  an  honest 
man  to  be  a  traitor.  I  am  a  nobleman,  and  I  am  in 
the  King's  service,  t  shall  be  obliged  to  repeat  what 
I  have  heard  from  you.  It  is  my  duty  !  " 

"That  is  what  I  wanted  you  to  do,"  said  Cosel. 

"  But  it  would  give  to  your  numerous  foes  a  new 
weapon." 

"  One  less  or  more  does  not  amount  to  anything. 
They  use  lies,  calumny,  treachery.  The  villains  feel  in 
me  a  being  that  cannot  suffer  their  villainies ;  my 
honesty  is  a  continual  reproach  to  them.  How  can 
they  forgive  a  woman  who  did  not  wish  to  be  as 
soiled  as  they  are  ?  " 

She  laughed  bitterly,  while  the  Baron  felt  very 
uneasy.  During  that  conversation  her  eyes  were  in 
turn  wet  with  tears  and  burning  with  fire.  Cosel 
possessed  all  the  characteristics  of  Medea — everything 
that  an  ideal  turns  into  reality.  When  she  became 
silent,  the  chamberlain  still  stared  at  her  as  if  he  were 
mesmerized. 

"  I  am  very  sorry  indeed,"  said  he  at  last,  "  that  you 
force  me  to  contribute  to  your  misfortune."  And  he 
was  sincere  there. 

"  No  one  can  make  my  misfortune  greater,"  said 
she.  "  You  are  mistaken  if  you  think  that  I  regret 
the  loss  of  palaces  and  luxury.  No  !  I  suffer  because 
I  have  lost  my  faith  in  a  human  heart.  Give  me  back 
his  heart,  and  I  will  give  up  for  it  the  crown  of  the 
world.  I  loved  him  !  My  whole  life  was  bound  up 
in  him— he  was  my  hero  ;  he  was  my  god  ;  but  the 
hero  turned  clown,  his  godhead  is  smirched." 


The  Countess  Cosel  245 

The  Baron  tried  to  tranquillize  her,  but  she  cried,— 

"  O  my  golden  dreams,  where  are  you  ? " 

Von  Sinen  could  hold  no  longer.  Pity  was  stronger 
within  him  than  any  other  consideration. 

"  I  implore  you,"  said  he,  "to  go  away  from  here  ! 
I  can  say  no  more." 

"  What !  "  said  Cosel.  "  Is  it  possible  that  even 
here  I  am  threatened  ?  Would  the  King  of  Prussia 
surrender  a  woman  as  Augustus  surrendered  Patkul?" 

Von  Sinen  stood  silent ;  it  was  evident  he  could  not 
say  any  more. 

"  Where  is  there  to  go  ?"  she  murmured  to  herself. 
"  I  could  not  live  too  far  from  him  ;  my  heart  still 
longs  for  him.  Let  them  do  with  me  what  they 
please.  I  am  disgusted  with  life.  They  have  taken 
away  my  children — they  have  left  me  only  bitterness." 

The  chamberlain  had  seized  his  hat. 

"  I  pity  you,"  said  he  ;  "  but  as  long  as  you  do  not 
change  your  sentiments  your  friends  can  do  nothing 
for  you." 

"  My  friends  ?  "  said  she,  ironically. 

"  You  have  more  than  you  think,"  said  the  visitor. 
"  I  am  the  first." 

"  What !  You  my  friend  !  I  could  find  three  or 
four  such  as  you  are.  They  are  willing  to  console  the 
widow  and  share  her  riches  !  " 

Von  Sinen  was  so  confused  that  he  could  not  answer. 
He  bowed  distantly,  and,  pursued  by  Cosel's  scornful 
looks,  left  the  room. 


CHAPTER   XX. 

COSEL'S  enemies  tried  every  means  to  excite  the  King 
against  her.  He  did  not  wish  to  mention  her,  but  it 
was  no  use.  The  deadly  grudges  were  taking  various 
disguises,  mostly  fear  for  the  King's  safety.  They 
tried  to  represent  the  unfortunate  woman  as  being  very 
dangerous  :  she  was  free  and  still  very  rich  ;  she  might 
become  very  threatening. 

Flemming,  Lowendahl,  Watzdorf,  Lagnasco,  without 
asking  the  King's  permission,  sent  spies,  and  planned 
how  they  could  seize  her  riches  as  they  did  those  of 
Beichling. 

Some  of  them  acted  under  the  influence  of  vengeance, 
others  of  cupidity.  Cosel  had  not  wronged  any  of 
them  during  her  influence,  and  many  of  them  were 
beholden  to  her  for  their  freedom  and  elevation. 

When  Von  Sinen  returned  from  Berlin  he  did  not 
appear  immediately  at  court,  for  he  was  still  under  the 
spell  of  pity  for  the  unfortunate  woman,  but  Lowendahl 
spied  him  out  and  went  to  see  him. 

"  How  did  you  find  Cosel  ?  "  asked  he.  "  Does  she 
still  speak  about  the  promise  of  marriage  ?  Does  she 
still  threaten  ?  " 

Von  Sinen  answered  sadly, — 

"  The  fact  is  that  she  is  very  unhappy." 


The  Countess  Cosel  247 

"Unhappy!  It's  her  own  fault!  But  speak  pre- 
cisely— tell  me  what  you  have  seen  and  heard,"  pressed 
Lowendahl. 

"  Frankly  speaking,  my  heart  bleeds  at  the  thought 
of  what  I  have  seen  and  heard.  She  is  still  angry, 
and  never  will  forgive.  But  in  her  misfortune  she 
arouses  respect.  She  is  marvellous  and  grand." 

"  Consequently  dangerous  !  "  said  Lowendahl  ;  "but 
she  must  have  lost  much  of  her  beauty  ?  " 

"  She  is  more  beautiful  than  ever — she  is  beaming 
with  beauty." 

''  So  much  the  worse  !  "  said  Lowendahl.  "  The 
King  might  see  her,  and,  being  tired  of  Denhoff's 
withered  face,  she  would  capture  him  again." 

"  There  is  no  doubt  about  that,"  said  Von  Sinen. 

Little  by  little  Lowendahl  learned  what  he  wanted 
to  know  in  order  to  repeat  it  to  the  Countess  Denhoff. 
The  very  same  day  he  went  to  pay  her  a  visit,  and 
durino-  the  conversation  he  mentioned  that  there  was 

o 

news  from  Cosel. 

"  Where  is  she  ?"  asked  the  Countess. 

"  She  is  in  Berlin,  and  uses  her  liberty  to  blacken  our 
King  and  his  company,"  said  Lowendahl.  "  But  the 
worst  thing  is  that  she  threatens  to  kill  our  lord." 

Denhoff  screamed  and  rushed  from  the  sofa. 

"But  that  is  dreadful !  We  must  warn  the  King," 
she  said. 

"Yes,  we  must  try  to  deprive  her  of  her  freedom." 

The  Countess  did  not  answer,  for  it  entered  her  mind 
that  the  same  fate  might  be  hers  too. 

Lowendahl  guessed  her  thoughts,  for  he  added, — 

"  The   King  was  never  severe  towards  those  whom 


248  The  Countess  Cosel 

he  loved  ;  the  best  proof  of  it  is  those  ladies  whom  you 
have  met  here  ;  but  there  are  some  cases- 
Here  the  Countess  Bielinska,  the  mother,  entered, 
and  having  learned  what  the  question  was,  she  became 
indignant. 

"Truly,  the  King  is  too  good  for  that  mad  woman  ! 
She  challenges  him !  We  must  put  an  end  to  her 
daring !  " 

They  agreed  that  Denhoff  should  warn  the  King ; 
but,  upon  reflection,  the  mother  said  that  she  could  do 
it  better. 

Lowendahl,  having  entrusted  his  vengeance  to  such 
hands,  went  out. 

In  the  evening  of  the  same  day,  there  was  an 
entertainment  in  the  garden  of  the  Hesperides,  as 
they  then  called  the  garden  surrounding  Z winger, 
now  the  famous  picture  gallery.  The  garden  was  laid 
out  in  accordance  with  the  taste  of  those  times  ;  the 
flower-beds  were  surrounded  by  trimmed  box  trees  ; 
there  were  many  fountains,  grottoes  and  mythological 
statues.  During  the  evening  the  lighted  Japanese 
lanterns  made  it  still  prettier  than  it  was  during  the 
day.  On  the  balconies  surrounding  Zwinger,  bands 
played  lively  melodies,  which  were  carried  afar  on  the 
sweet  breezes.  In  the  middle  of  the  garden  was 
an  enormous  tent,  destined  for  dancing. 

The  King  came  dressed  in  blue,  silver  and  white 
lace ;  he  was  looking  quite  young.  The  Countess 
Denhoff  also  wore  a  pale  blue  and  white  dress  which 
was  very  becoming  to  her.  Forcing  herself  to  be 
merry,  she  greeted  the  King  with  some  jests.  Her 
sister,  the  Countess  Pcciej,  helped  her  to  entertain  the 


The  Countess  Cosel  249 

King,  who,  as  he  grew  older,  was  more  difficult  to 
amuse. 

Augustus  was  gloomy  and  looked  tired. 

By  a  preconcerted  arrangement,  the  Countess 
Pociej  suggested  that  formerly  he  amused  himself 
better  with  Cosel,  and  that  perchance  he  regretted 
her. 

The  gallant  King  replied  that  in  the  presence  of 
such  charming  ladies  he  did  not  remember  and  did  not 
regret  anything. 

Countess  Denhoff  seized  the  opportunity  of  saying 
something  about  Cosel ;  but,  as  usual,  she  did  it 
awkwardly,  and  her  mother,  waiting  for  the  oppor- 
tunity, came  to  her  help.  Then  both  began  to  lament 
on  the  theme  of  Cosel. 

The  King  did  not  like  that,  for  he  was  quite  silent. 
At  that  moment  both  women  were  frightened,  but  at 
last  the  King  said, — 

"  Dear  Countess,  pray  be  easy  about  me.  I  am 
watched  by  many  guardians,  some  asked  and  some  not 
asked  ;  and  nothing  will  happen  to  me.  I  do  not  like 
to  talk  about  these  matters.  Better  let  us  go  and  look 
at  the  dancing." 

Thus  the  project  of  an  attack  was  not  carried  out  at 
that  moment :  but  it  was  repeated  in  the  evening 
by  Flamming  and  Lowendahl,  as  they  drank  with  the 
King.  The  King  let  them  talk  and  he  listened. 

"  Lowendahl,  listen,"  said  the  King  sneeringly,  "  it 
is  a  fact  that  you  give  me  a  great  proof  of  your  attach- 
ment to  my  person,  warning  me  of  the  Countess,  who 
is  your  relation,  and  to  whom  you  should  be  thankful 
for  all  that  I  have  done  for  you.  I  ought  to  reward 


250  The  Countess  Cosel 

you  for  it  ;  but  I  cannot  help  telling  you  that  it  seems 
very  strange  to  me." 

Lowendahl  became  silent,  and  the  intriguers  had 
learnt  that  they  must  use  some  other  means. 

Although  Cosel  wanted  to  lead  a  quiet  life  in 
Berlin,  her  beauty,  her  wit,  and  her  fame  were  too 
much  known  for  her  company  not  to  be  sought. 

She  knew  many  people  in  the  court  of  Frederick 
since  his  visit  to  Dresden.  The  officers  were  so 
much  bored  by  continual  military  reviews  and  quiet 
evenings  in  the  palace  of  the  Queen,  that  they  were 
glad  to  have  some  other  distraction.  The  King 
himself  spent  most  of  his  time  in  Potsdam  and  Wur- 
terhausen,  rather  than  in  the  capital,  but  he  never 
failed  to  be  present  at  the  change  of  guard  at  ten 
o'clock  in  the  morning,  to  give  audience  to  his 
ministers  and  to  take  a  walk.  About  noon  he  took  a 
modest  meal  with  the  Queen ;  in  the  afternoon  he 
worked  hard  and  did  not  appear  until  the  evening.  In 
the  company  of  a  few  ladies  and  officers  they  played 
picquet,  ombre  and  trictrac — they  smoked,  and  thus 
passed  the  time  until  eleven  o'clock ;  at  that  hour 
everything  was  officially  ended. 

This  monotony  of  life  was  varied  only  by  receptions 
given  by  some  dignitaries.  Life  here  was  quite 
different  from  what  it  was  in  Dresden,  at  which  they 
quietly  laughed  here,  especially  at  Augustus'  military 
amusements,  which  nobody  took  seriously  in  Berlin. 
The  gorgeously  dressed  Saxon  soldiers  could  not  be 
compared  with  those  of  Prussia,  clad  in  their  modest 
blue  uniforms.  Instead  of  fanciful  flags,  here  was  used 


The  Countess  Cosel  251 

only  a  white  one,  with  the  proud  motto,  over  a  flying 
eagle,  Nee  soli  cedit.  In  these  times  the  motto 
seemed  too  bold  ;  the  future  justified  it. 

There  were  no  two  characters  more  opposite  than 
those  of  Frederick  of  Prussia  and  Frederick  Augustus 
of  Saxony.  Since  Fraulein  von  Pannevitz  slapped  the 
Prussian  King's  face  for  the  kiss  he  tried  to  steal  from 
her,  he  had  not  looked  at  any  woman,  and  was  the 
most  faithful  husband.  He  and  the  whole  of  his  family 
led  such  a  thrifty  life,  that  they  not  only  rose  from  his 
table  sober,  but  even  hungry. 

The  order  in  the  country  and  the  army  was 
pedantic ;  the  customs  were  Spartan.  Before  each 
repast  prayer  was  recited  ;  the  cooking  was  bourgeois  ; 
no  one  thought  about  the  court  balls.  They  used  to 
eat  from  earthenware,  and  only  when  there  was  a 
dinner  in  honour  of  somebody  did  they  take  out 
the  heavy  silver,  which  was  locked  up  again  the  same 
evening. 

The  King  had  some  fancies,  but  they  were  quiet- 
different  from  those  of  Augustus.  When  the  Queen 
left  the  company  after  a  meagre  supper,  the  men 
gathered  in  the  smoking-room,  where  the  King  treated 
them  to  pipes.  During  the  smoking  it  was  allowed  to 
criticize  some  one.  In  the  centre  of  the  room  there 
stood  a  simple  table,  round  which  sat  ministers, 
generals,  sometimes  a  guest.  Every  one  received  a 
Dutch  pipe  and  a  mug  of  beer.  To  make  somebody 
drunk  was  a  great  point  with  the  King.  To  sneer  at 
savants,  the  aristocracy,  officials,  was  the  greatest 
pleasure.  The  jokes  were  sometimes  interspersed 
with  quarrels  in  which  mugs  were  freely  thrown  about 


252  The  Countess  Cosel 

— many  were  hurt   in   these  encounters,   but  nobody 
was  ever  killed. 

At  times  a  debate  would  be  arranged— on  the 
theme  that  savants  weie  ignorant.  Morgenstern 
would  address  the  house ;  dressed  in  a  long,  blue 
robe  trimmed  with  reel  and  embroidered  with  hares  ; 
and  wearing  a  red  vest,  a  big  wig  and  a  fox's  brush 
instead  of  a  sword. 

Such  were  the  entertainments  of  the  Prussian 
court.  In  Dresden  they  laughed  at  Berlin ;  in 
Berlin  they  laughed  at  Dresden,  considering  it  the 
ante-chamber  of  hell,  for  Frederick  Augustus  of 
Saxony  did  not  believe  in  anything,  while  Frederick 
of  Prussia  was  pious  after  his  own  fashion. 

Once  when  a  new  butler  was  reading  a  prayer 
before  supper  and  came  to  the  words,  "  May  God 
bless  thee,"  he  thought  it  would  be  more  decent 
to  change  it  into,  "  May  God  bless  your  Majesty." 
The  King  did  not  like  it  and  said,  "  You  rascal, 
read  it  as  it  is  written  ;  for  in  God's  face  I  am  as 
good,  rascal,  as  you  are." 

No  wonder,  then,  that  after  meagre  suppers,  after 
entertainments  in  the  smoking-room,  there  was  a 
longing  for  different  society,  for  better  jests,  for  more 
elegant  conversation.  Cosel's  acquaintances  began  to 
visit  her  ;  the  wearied  woman  opened  her  door  to  a  few 
of  them,  and  a  small  circle  of  people  gathered  quietly 
in  the  evenings,  for  in  Berlin  no  noise  was  permitted. 

King  Frederick,  although  he  was  well  aware  of 
this  fact,  for  he  knew  well  what  was  going  on  in 
his  capital,  said  nothing  at  first.  It  encouraged  a 
few  officers  and  courtiers.  They  used  to  come 


The  Countess  Cosel  253 

towards  seven  o'clock,  and  as  Cosel  could  not  sleep, 
they  usually  chatted  till  midnight  and  after.  They 
would  bring  gossip,  and  the  Countess  did  not  conceal 
her  rancour  towards  Augustus.  Many  things  said 
here  were  passed  to  the  smoking-room,  where  they 
were  repeated  to  the  King.  Then  Frederick  smiled, 
but  he  shook  his  head,  and  seemed  to  be  surprised  that 
Cosel  was  so  daring. 

One  evening,  as  the  usual  young  guests  were 
gathered  in  Cosel's  house,  there  came  an  old  general, 
who  was  an  habitue  of  the  smoking-room.  His 
presence  made  the  young  men  careful  in  their  con- 
versation, but  did  not  stop  Cosel  from  bitterly 
criticizing  Augustus. 

The  old  general  shook  his  head  and  listened;  he 
seemed  to  wonder  and  not  to  believe  his  own  ears. 
He  remained  until  every  one  had  left  the  house. 
Cosel  was  surprised. 

The  old  man,  who  had  spoken  very  little,  said 
respectfully  to  her  as  he  took  his  leave, — • 

"  Countess,  permit  me  to  make  a  remark  to  you. 
Time  flies  pleasantly  in  your  house ;  but  although  the 
doors  and  windows  are  shut,  a  great  many  things  get 
out.  Any  breeze  can  carry  gossip  to  the  banks  of 
Elbe  ;  our  neighbour  may  frown  on  our  King,  because 
such  things  are  said  here  against  our  good  neighbour 
and  ally.  The  King  would  be  very  sorry — " 

Cosel  frowned. 

"  Then  even  in  my  own  house,"  said  she,  "  I  cannot 
say  what  I  please  ?•" 

"  Yes,  you  can,"  said  the  General,  "  but  one  can  also 
go  where  one  does  not  wish  to  go." 


254  The  Countess  Cosel 

"Even  I?" 

"  Dear  Countess,"  said  the  General,  sighing,  "  it 
might  happen  even  to  you.  A  military  order  prevails 
in  our  country.  I  would  advise  you  to  play  trictrac  ; 
it  amuses,  and  is  less  dangerous." 

Cosel  dropped  her  head  sadly. 

"You  may  think,"  continued  the  General,  "that  I 
am  grumbling,  as  old  people  do.  Well,  then,  I  will 
tell  you  that  somebody  advised  me  to  warn  you." 

Having  said  this,  he  quietly  left  the  room,  and 
the  Countess  threw  herself  on  the  sofa  and  laughed 
bitterly. 

But  she  did  not  listen  to  the  warning,  and  when 
her  guests  gathered  again,  her  words  were  many  and 
loud,  in  utter  defiance  of  the  severity  with  which  she 
was  threatened. 

One  morning  the  Governor-general  of  Berlin  came 
to  Cosel's  house.  He  saluted  her  civilly,  smiled, 
twisted  his  moustache,  and  then  asked  her,— 

"  Is  it  true  that  you  wish  to  change  your  residence 
and  go  to  live  in  the  quiet  city  of  Halle  ? " 

"I,  in  Halle?"  exclaimed  Cosel.  "And  what 
should  I  do  there?  " 

"  The  air  is  very  healthy  there,  the  views  are  lovely, 
and  it  is  quiet  and  secluded.  There  is  no  more  agree- 
able place  to  live  in  than  Halle." 

At  first  Cosel  did  not  know  what  to  answer.  Then 
she  said, — 

"  But  I  never  intended  to  go  to  Halle." 

"  It  is  rather  strange,"  said  the  Governor-general, 
"  somebody  spoke  about  it  to  his  Majesty,  and  the 
King  ordered  that  every  comfort  should  be  assured 


The  Countess  Cosel  255 

you.  The  King's  orders  cannot  be  disobeyed ;  the 
best  way,  then,  will  be  to  go  to  Halle." 

Cosel  wrung  her  hands,  and  the  tears  began  to  flow 
down  her  cheeks. 

"  Then  it  is  an  order,"  she  said,  finally,  "it  is  a  new 
exile — why  is  it  ?  " 

"  The  King  thinks  you  will  be  more  comfortable 
there.  You  know  that  in  Berlin  every  word  echoes 
far.  There  in  Halle,  no  one  will  hear  anything.  There 
is  more  freedom.'1 

He  had  risen 

"  You  may  go  there  to-morrow,  in  the  morning,"  he 
added.  "  The  weather  is  lovely  ;  but  as  the  roads  are 
not  always  safe,  his  Majesty  offers  you  a  few  men  to 
escort  you.  It  is  great  gallantry  on  his  part  ;  you 
should  be  thankful  to  him  for  that." 

General  Wartesleben  bowed  very  elegantly  and 
went  out,  leaving  the  Countess  as  one  turned  to  stone. 

The  blow  came  from  Dresden — there  can  be  no 
doubt  about  that.  They  wanted  to  force  her  to  be 
silent — to  accept  her  fate.  Her  unbending  spirit  rose 
in  indignation  ;  every  such  blow  made  her  more 
energetic. 

She  ordered  her  trunks  to  be  packed  and  the  horses 
to  be  hired,  and  the  faithful  but  gloomy  Zaklika  worked 
hard  without  saying  a  word. 

When  Cosel  was  ready  to  enter  the  carriage,  a 
small  group  of  curious  men  gathered  round  the  house ; 
but  seeing  that  woman  clad  in  black  going  majestically 
to  the  carriage  surrounded  by  dragoons,  they  were 
frightened  and  scattered,  for  they  thought  that  a 
victim  was  being  conducted  to  the  scaffold. 


CHAPTER  XXI. 

IN  a  narrow  street  in  the  city  of  Halle,  in  the  first 
floor  of  a  modest  house,  a  strange  woman  had  for 
some  time  attracted  the  attention  of  the  peaceful 
passers-by. 

There  she  sat  all  day  long,  looking  out  at  the  sky, 
with  unseeing  eyes,  and  her  mien,  her  great  beauty, 
and  the  intense  sadness  of  her  face  attracted  a  curious 
crowd. 

No  one  in  Halle  knew  the  lady,  but  from  her  sad- 
ness they  guessed  she  was  very  unhappy. 

She  never  looked  at  the  human  faces  ;  her  gaze  was 
fixed  on  space.  Only  when  many  people  gathered 
and  began  to  whisper,  with  curious  looks  at  her,  she 
started  and  left  the  window. 

The  door  of  her  house  was  always  shut ;  nobody 
visited  her ;  a  servant  obtained  her-  meals  from  a 
restaurant.  Only  from  time  to  time  a  young,  elegantly 
dressed  man  knocked  at  the  door.  He  went  in  and 
stayed  for  a  few  moments ;  then  he  returned,  sad. 
The  students  called  him  the  lover  of  the  beautiful 
unknown,  although  he  did  not  look  like  it. 

The  beautiful  mysterious  lady — for  every  one 
believed  her  to  be  a  lady — was  the  sole  topic  of  con- 
versation in  Halle  at  that  time. 


The  Countess  Cosel  257 

The  landlord  and  his  wife,  questioned  by  their 
friends,  even  the  bribed  servant,  would  not  give  a 
word  of  information  about  her.  When  questioned, 
they  threw  a  frightened  look  round,  and  muttered 
something  about  not  knowing  anything. 

Besides  the  curious,  from  time  to  time  a  soldier 
walked  past  the  house,  looking  in  at  the  windows  ; 
then  a  man,  whose  mien  indicated  that  he  had  been  a 
soldier. 

That  beautiful  unknown  lady  was  the  Countess  Cosel, 
but  how  terribly  changed  ! 

The  latest  incident  had  broken  the  spirit  of  the 
woman,  filled  her  soul  with  fear,  and  driven  away  all 
hope.  She  was  now  sad  and  in  despair,  and  con- 
tinually crying.  The  vengeance  that  persecuted  her 
was  so  implacable,  that  now  she  expected  everything 
— even  death. 

In  Berlin  she  was  free — she  could  escape  ;  in  Halle 
she  was  a  prisoner.  Zaklika,  who  had  accompanied 
her  here,  told  her  the  next  day  that  all  the  doors  of 
the  house  were  watched.  She  was  still  free,  but  she 
could  not  take  a  step.  She  wanted  to  go  to  church 
on  Sunday,  but,  seeing  that  she  was  watched,  she 
returned  home.  The  landlord  and  his  wife  were  very 
civil,  but  could  not  be  trusted.  The  burgher  had  fox- 
like  eyes,  and  his  wife  was  pale  and  did  not  dare  to 
speak  a  word. 

Zaklika  tried  to  make  friends  with  them  ;  they  ran 
from  him  as  from  the  pestilence. 

A  few  days  later  the  Chamberlain  Von  Sinen  was 
announced.  He  came  in  sad,  modest,  and  confused, 
as  if  he  did  not  know  what  to  say. 

s 


258  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  With  what  do  you  come  ?  "  asked  Cosel,  "  for  I 
know  that  you  do  not  come  in  sympathy,  but  by  com- 
mand." 

"You  are  mistaken,"  answered  Von  Sinen.  "  It  is 
.both  ;  I  preferred  to  come  myself  rather  than  let  any 
one  else  be  sent  here." 

"  Speak,  then,"  said  Cosel,  "  I  am  ready  for  any- 
thing." 

"Were  you  only  ready  to  have  more  resignation," 
said  he,  "everything  could  be  repaired." 

"  What  do  they  require  from  me  ?" 

Von  Sinen  sighed. 

"  The  King  has  sent  me  to  ask  you  for  the  paper 
which  he  signed  for  you,"  said  the  Chamberlain. 

"  And  he  thinks  that  I  shall  surrender  it,  so  that 
from  a  wife  I  shall  become  a  mistress,  whom  he  can 
dismiss  whenever  he  likes."  And  she  added,  "  If  you 
have  come  only  on  that  errand,  then  return  and  tell 
the  King  that  Cosel  will  never  sell  her  honour." 

"  Madam,  for  heaven's  sake,"  said  the  Chamberlain, 
"do  not  be  stubborn.  If  you  return  that  paper,  you 
Ccn  yet  recover  your  freedom — everything." 

"  Augustus'  heart  is  what  I  want,"  whispered  Cosel. 
"  But  he  has  none  in  that  breast  glittering  with 
diamonds  ;  he  is  as  cold  as  are  the  stones.  I  shall 
never  get  back  that  which  is  dearest  to  me — faith  in 
mankind." 

Von  Sinen  remained  a  couple  of  hours  ;  but  not 
being  able  to  prevail  upon  her,  he  stayed  in  Halle 
several  days,  giving  her  plenty  of  time  to  think  it 
over. 

He  visited  her  each  day,  trying  to  persuade  her  by 


The  Countess  Cosel  259 

all  possible  arguments  ;  but  she  was  persistent  in  her 
refusal. 

"  I  shall  not  give  back  the  paper,"  she  repeated. 
"It  contains  the  defence  of  my  honour  and  my 
children's.  I  shall  die,  but  he  shall  not  have  it." 

The  second  day  after  Von  Sinen's  arrival,  Cosel 
called  Zaklika  to  her.  He  looked  awful — pale,  angry, 
and  silent.  When  he  looked  at  people,  they  shrank 
from  that  face  full  of  hate,  seeing  in  it  a  grief  only 
looking  for  the  opportunity  to  change  into  madness. 

They  could  not  talk  long  in  the  house,  being  sur- 
rounded by  spies.  Zaklika  used  to  come  and  go  as 
though  he  had  business  to  do,  carrying  something  out 
and  then  bringing  it  back.  Only  thus  could  they 
speak.  Cosel  said  to  him,— 

"  Do  they  watch  you,  too  ?  " 

"  Not  yet." 

"  You  must  leave  me,  and  be  entirely  free." 

Zaklika  shivered  and  stared  at  her. 

"  I  ?  Leave  you  ?  And  what  am  I  to  do  with 
myself  ?  to  what  shall  I  devote  my  life  ?  Then  I  can 
only  die." 

"  No,"  said  Cosel,  "it  is  only  the  beginning  of  my 
imprisonment.  You  must  be  free  in  order  to  help  me 
to  get  back  my  freedom." 

Zaklika  became  thoughtful. 

"  Speak,  then,"  said  he  after  a  while. 

"  You  will  know  where  I  am.  I  trust  you,  you 
must  think  about  means ;  you  will  try  and  free 
me.  There  are  still  a  few  thousands  with  Lehman  ; 
I  will  give  you  a  word  to  him — you  will  take  the 
money." 


260  The  Countess  Cosel 

Zaklika  was  indignant  that  she  should  offer  him 
money. 

"  It  is  not  for  you,  but  you  must    have  it  to   free 

» 
me. 

She  looked  at  him.     He  nodded  obediently. 

"In  the  first  place,  go  and  try  to  find  out  whether 
they  will  let  you  go  ;  you  may  tell  them  that  you  do 
not  wish  to  serve  me  any  more.  Do  what  you  please. 
Carry  in  your  breast  my  treasure  that  I  entrusted  to 
you.  Do  you  understand  me  ?  " 

She  extended  to  him  her  trembling  hand. 

"  Only  you  do  I  trust,  for  only  in  you  is  a  human 
soul.  Do  not  betray  me,  like  the  rest !  " 

"I  ?"  exclaimed  Zaklika,  indignantly,  and  his  eyes 
shone  so  fiercely  that  Cosel  retreated.  "  I  ? "  repeated 
he,  trembling.  "  I  can  die,  but  not  betray." 

"  Then  you  must  be  free,  without  arousing  suspicion. 

/~«    i  » 
Go ! 

Zaklika  went  out,  and  he  did  not  reappear  until  the 
next  day  towards  evening,  when  he  brought  with 
him  a  new  servant,  and  took  his  leave  from  his 
mistress. 

Cosel  had  enough  strength  to  play  a  scene  of  anger, 
for  the  landlord  and  his  wife  listened  at  the  door. 

He  left  the  room,  and  went  to  an  official  complain- 
ing that  Cosel  did  not  want  to  let  him  go,  to  which  he 
had  right,  for  he  was  a  Polish  nobleman,  therefore  a 
free  man. 

The  Prussian  laughed,  for  he  knew  how  many 
Polish  noblemen  had  been  caught  by  the  Prussians, 
and  obliged  to  serve  in  their  army,  but  he  did  not  say 
anything.  Perhaps,  had  Zaklika  not  been  so  pale  and 


The  Countess  Cosel  261 

looked  so  miserable,  he  would  have  forced  him  to 
accept  service  in  the  regiment  of  gigantic  grenadiers, 
but  Zaklika  was  looking  wretched,  and  it  would  have 
cost  much  to  feed  him  up. 

Therefore  they  did  not  hesitate  to  let  him  go.  He 
returned  at  once  to  Cosel,  but,  knowing  that  he  had 
quarrelled,  they  did  not  listen  to  him  again  at  the 
door. 

"  Go  to  Dresden,"  said  Cosel,  "  and  tell  everybody 
that  you  have  left  me.  Lehman  will  give  you  the 
money.  Take  it  in  gold.  You  will  hear  what  becomes 
of  me.  If  I  am  free,  you  will  come  to  me  ;  if  not,  help 
me  to  escape.  If  you  arouse  suspicion,  and  they  would 
capture  you,  then  destroy  the  paper  I  have  entrusted 
to  you,  but  do  not  give  it  to  any  one.  Do  not 
destroy  it  while  you  have  any  hope  of  escape  ;  destroy 
it  only  at  the  last  extremity,  but  they  must  know 
nothing  about  its  destruction,  so  that  they  may  be 
always  in  fear  of  its  discovery." 

She  extended  her  hand  to  him.  He  kissed  it  and 
cried,  but  said  not  a  word.  Then  Cosel  wrung  her 
hands,  and  exclaimed,— 

"  There  are  still  some  hearts  !  " 

Zaklika  went  out  as  though  intoxicated. 

The  next  day,  when  Von  Sinen  came  to  see  her,  he 
found  her  more  merry,  more  resigned  and  quieter. 
He  thought  that  perchance  she  might  return  the 
paper,  that  she  would  have  pity  on  herself,  but  he 
soon  learned  that  he  was  mistaken.  Cosel  said  to  him 
when  he  entered, — 

"  I  pity  you.  You  will  not  gain  the  King's  favours, 
my  brave  relation,  Lowendahl  will  not  care  for  you  ; 


262  The  Countess  Cosel 

Flemming  will  not  make  you  drunk,  and  you  will  not 
get  even  a  thousand  thalers.  I  am  so  stubborn — mad  ! 
Is  it  not  true  ?  " 

"  Then  all  my  efforts  were  in  vain  ?  " 

"Yes,"  said  she,  taking  a  ring  from  her  finger. 
"  1  pity  you,  my  unsuccessful  messenger,  and  I  should 
like  you  to  preserve  a  souvenir  of  my  goodwill  : 
accept  this  ring.  It  is  no  longer  an  agreeable  souvenir 
for  me,  it  makes  me  ache  like  a  wound.  Take  it, 
pray !  " 

Von  Sinen  accepted  the  ring.  He  tried  once  more 
to  persuade  her,  but  Cosel  laughed. 

"  Spare  yourself  the  trouble  and  me  the  worry.  I 
know  your  arguments,  they  will  not  persuade  me." 

Before  leaving  Halle,  the  Chamberlain  came  once 
again.  He  was  sad,  but  did  not  say  anything.  Cosel 
was  surprised  at  his  return. 

"I  pity  you  so  much,"  said  he,  "that  I  cannot 
refrain  from  telling  you  what  you  have  to  expect." 

"  I  know  that  it  is  nothing  pleasant,"  she  inter- 
rupted, "  but  it  would  not  change  my  determination. 
I  shall  not  return  the  promise  signed  by  the  King. 
He  was  perfectly  free  to  give  it  to  me  or  not,  but  the 
King  cannot  ask  for  the  return  of  his  promise  given  to 
a  woman,  and  thus  cheat  her.  I  cannot  even  suspect 
that  it  is  the  King's  will.  Such  vile  men  as  Flemming 
and  Lowendahl  might  wish  to  get  hold  of  it  without 
the  King's  knowledge  in  order  to  make  him  pay  for 
it.  The  King  cannot  ask  it  from  me  !  " 

She  turned  and  left  the  room.  The  same  day  Von 
Sinen  left  Halle  ;  he  went  away  with  a  strange  feeling. 
The  first  time  he  was  sent  to  her,  he  fulfilled  his  duty 


The  Countess  Cosel  263 

with  the  cold  blood  of  a  diplomat ;  little  by  little  the 
stability  of  this  woman,  her  bravery,  perseverance, 
character,  made  such  a  deep  impression  on  him  that 
he  was  ashamed  of  his  role.  He  pitied  her  and  felt 
humiliated. 

He  was  going  back  more  angry  with  those  who  sent 
him  than  with  the  unfortunate  woman  who  had  sent 
him  away  with  such  an  unshaken  bravery  displayed  in 
defence  of  her  honour. 

When  he  arrived  at  Dresden  he  had  plenty  of  time 
for  rest.  The  whole  Court  was  making  preparations 
for  a  great  festival,  which  was  going  to  be  held  at 
Moritzburg  ;  they  had  not  time  to  call  him  and  ask 
him  to  report  the  result  of  his  mission,  and  he  did  not 
hasten  himself.  He  was  glad  that  he  could  for  at 
least  a  few  days  stay  the  decision  of  Cosel's  lot,  which 
he  thought  would  be  still  worse. 

Moritzburg  was  a  hunting  lodge,  built  not  far  from 
Dresden,  in  the  woods.  It  was  a  charming  little  castle 
surrounded  by  old  trees.  The  King  invited  the  whole 
Court  there,  many  foreigners,  as  well  as  his  former 
favourites,  the  Princess  Teschen,  the  Countess  Konigs- 
mark,  together  with  the  Countess  Denhoff  and  her 

o 

sister  Pociej. 

The  site  of  the  entertainment  was  a  plain  where 
game  was  to  be  driven  from  the  forest  to  be  shot. 
Hard  by  was  a  lake  on  which  boat  races  were  to  be  held. 

The  crowd  of  guests  was  a  great  one ;  the  enter- 
tainment succeeded  perfectly,  and  as  the  guests  did 
not  retire  to  the  tents  prepared  for  them  very  sober, 
the  next  day  they  were  obliged  to  hunt  for  wigs, 
shoes,  and  swords  in  the  woods  and  bushes. 


264  The  Countess  Cosel 

Von  Sinen  mixed  with  the  crowd,  and  wandered 
here  and  there  ;  all  this  amusement  seemed  to  him 
wild.  The  King  was  in  an  excellent  humour,  and  was 
very  amiable  to  his  dismissed  favourites.  The  Countess 
Denhoff  burned  with  jealousy  when  he  talked  with  the 
Princess  Teschen,  Konigsmark  looked  sneerirgly  at 
Denhoff  when  the  King  was  chatting  with  her. 

Augustus  was  entirely  taken  up  with  the  illumina- 
tions and  the  magnificent  feast,  and  when  towards 
midnight  everything  was  over,  he  sat  down  to  drink 
with  his  friends. 

Here  they  let  their  tongues  go ;  Flemming,  Vitz- 
thum,  and  Frisen  could  talk  as  much  as  they  wished, 
even  about  those  ladies  towards  whom  Augustus  was 
respectful. 

They  passed  in  review  all  the  gross  and  scandalous 
stories  of  the  Court 

Lowendahl  was  sitting  at  the  other  end  of  the 
table. 

"  It  seems  to  me,"  said  the  King  to  him,  "  that  I 
have  noticed  Von  Sinen." 

"  He  has  returned  from  Halle,"  answered  the 
Marshal  sourly,  looking  at  the  King. 

"  Von  Sinen  was  sent  to  Cosel,  what  news  has  he 
brought  ?  " 

;<  The  same  as  always,"  answered  Lowendahl. 

"  You  should  have  offered  her  anything  she  wished 
in  exchange  for  that  paper,  even  freedom." 

"  She  said  that  she  would  not  part  with  it." 

Augustus  frowned. 

"  One  must  have  done  with  her  once  for  all,"  added 
Lowendahl. 


The  Countess  Cosel  265 

"  Yes,  to-morrow  we  will  send  a  letter  to  the  King 
of  Prussia,  asking  for  her  extradition,"  said  the  King. 
"  Then  we  will  see  what  can  be  done." 

"  And  where  does  your  Majesty  order  her  to  be 
put  in  the  meantime  ? " 

"  Let  her  be  taken  to  Nossen  Castle,  perhaps  she 
will  think  it  over  there.  I  cannot  bear  the  daring  war 
she  has  declared  against  me.  I  have  had  enough  of 
it.  Denhoff  splits  my  head  with  her  !  " 

Those  words,  spoken  in  a  moment  of  anger  and 
under  the  influence  of  wine,  were  seized  upon  and 
utilized  the  next  day.  Flemming  reminded  Augustus 
of  them. 

In  the  letter  to  the  King  of  Prussia,  asking  for  the 
Countess's  extradition,  they  gave  as  the  reason  daring 
speeches  against  Augustus,  as  well  as  a  plot  against 
his  life.  The  public  threat  justified  it.  The  letter 
was  sent  by  a  courier  to  Berlin. 

King  Frederick  did  not  hesitate  for  a  moment. 
Lieutenant  Ducharmoi,  of  the  regiment  of  the  Prince 
of  Anhalt-Dessau,  was  called  by  his  order. 

"  You  will  go  to  Halle,"  said  the  King  to  him, 
"  and  there  you  will  find  the  Countess  Cosel.  You 
will  take  her  under  escort,  on  your  responsibility,  and 
you  will  conduct  her  to  the  frontier  of  Saxony  ;  there 
you  will  give  her  into  the  hands  of  a  Saxon  officer, 
who  will  give  you  a  receipt." 

Ducharmoi  went  immediately  to  Halle,  where  he 
found  Cosel. 

Although  prepared  for  anything  bad,  she  paled  at 
the  sight  of  an  officer.  Ducharmoi,  after  having 
saluted  her,  told  her  that  he  was  commanded  by  the 


266  The  Countess  Cosel 

King  to  conduct  her  to  the  frontier  of  Saxony,  where 
she  would  be  delivered  to  the  Saxon  authorities. 

She  stood  for  a  moment  as  if  struck  by  a  thunder- 
bolt. 

"  What  an  injustice  !  What  barbarity  !  "  she  ex- 
claimed, and  two  streams  of  tears  flowed  down  her 
cheeks. 

From  that  moment  she  said  not  a  word  more. 

They  ordered  her  to  pack  her  things,  and  put  them 
in  a  hired  carriage. 

Ducharmoi  offered  her  his  arm,  and  she  descended 
to  her  carriage  without  looking  at  anybody.  The 
horses  went  off ;  the  carriage  being  escorted  by  a 
detachment  of  Prussian  cavralry.  During  the  whole  of 
the  journey  she  gave  no  signs  of  life.  At  last  the 
carriage  stopped.  Cosel  shivered  ;  through  the 
window  she  saw  the  Saxon  uniforms  worn  by  a  detach- 
ment of  dragoons,  who  were  to  conduct  her  further. 
She  called  Lieutenant  Ducharmoi,  who  approached  her 
carriage.  Then  she  emptied  her  pockets  ;  she  found  a 
gold  box  and  a  beautiful  watch,  and  handed  them  to 
the  officer. 

"  Pray,  take  that  as  a  souvenir  from  me." 

Ducharmoi  hesitated. 

"  I  beseech  you  to  accept,"  said  she,  "  it  must  not 
become  a  prey  to  those  horrid  Saxons." 

The  money  she  gave  to  the  Prussian  soldiers.  Then 
she  drew  the  curtains  again,  without  asking  what  they 
were  going  to  do  with  her. 


CHAPTER   XXII. 

FROM  the  moment  Cosel  passed  into  the  hands  of 
the  Saxon  authorities  imprisonment  was  likely  at  any 
time.  She  passed  the  night  in  Leipzig. 

In  the  morning  an  official,  wearing  a  little  sword  and 
a  big  wig,  silently  executing  the  orders  he  had  received 
from  his  superiors,  entered  the  room  in  which  she  had 
spent  a  sleepless  night,  crying.  He  brought  the  King's 
order,  instructing  him  to  examine  all  her  things,  and  to 
take  them  away. 

She  looked  at  him  contemptuously,  and  did  not  say 
a  word.  He  sealed  all  her  boxes,  and  took  the  papers 
and  jewels  ;  he  searched  in  her  trunks,  but  could  not 
find  that  for  which  he  was  looking.  This  humiliating 
inquisition  lasted  a  couple  of  hours. 

Hardly  had  she  been  permitted  to  rest  a  moment 
after  such  moral  torture,  than  she  was  ordered  to  again 
enter  the  carriage — not  being  told  where  they  were 
going  to  conduct  her. 

A  detachment  of  cavalry  surrounded  the   carriage— 
they  rode  till  the  evening.     Against  the  sky,  burning 
with  the   setting   sun,   there  appeared   the    walls  and 
towers  of  a  castle,  and  the  carriage,  passing  through  a 
narrow  gateway,  entered  the  courtyard. 

The  place  was  entirely  unknown  to  her.     The  castle 


268  The  Countess  Cosel 

was  empty  and  had  been  uninhabited  for  some  time. 
A  few  men  were  standing  at  the  door.  They  were 
obliged  to  conduct  the  weakened  lady  up  the  stairs 
leading  to  a  room  on  the  first  floor.  It  was  an  old 
habitation,  with  small  windows,  enormous  fireplaces, 
thick  walls,  without  any  comforts,  and  sparsely  fur- 
nished with  the  barest  necessities. 

Cosel,  thoroughly  tired,  threw  herself  on  the  bed. 

She  passed  a  sleepless  night,  tormented  by  horrid 
thoughts  aroused  by  her  imprisonment.  The  dawn 
was  breaking,  the  sky  was  growing  red-gold  in  the 
east,  the  servants  still  slept ;  only  the  guard  pacing  in 
the  corridor  broke  the  silence  when  Cosel  rose  and 
went  to  the  window. 

The  view  from  it  did  not  remind  her  of  anything. 
In  front  of  her  there  was  a  vast  plain,  stretching 
towards  the  blue  of  a  far  forest.  Here  and  there  rose 
clumps  of  trees  ;  a  few  roofs  could  be  seen,  and  from 
behind  the  green  columns  of  smoke  were  rising. 

The  castle  stood  on  an  eminence,  which  descended 
sharply  towards  a  village.  On  the  right  hand  there 
was  a  highway  bordered  with  willows.  The  road  was 
deserted. 

She  did  not  know  the  country. 

From  the  room  she  went  softly  to  another,  which 
w:as  larger,  in  the  middle  of  it  stood  an  oak  table,  and 
against  the  walls  a  few  benches  and  chairs.  Over  the 
fireplace  there  was  a  battered  coat-of-arms,  cut  in  the 
stone,  of  which  there  remained  only  the  shield  and 
helmet.  Behind  this  room,  and  like  it,  vaulted,  was  a 
small  round  room  in  the  tower,. on  the  other  side  of  the 
castle.  From  here  one  could  see"  forests,  hills,  and 


The  Countess  Cosel  269 

villages,  and  here  and  there  in  the  distance  the  towers 
of  some  knightly  castle,  built  like  an  eagle's  nest  on  a 
crag.  Still  the  country  was  unknown  to  her. 

In  the  room  in  the  tower  there  was  some  furniture  ; 
an  empty  wardrobe  stood  against  the  wall,  and  on  one 
of  its  shelves  was  an  old  Bible,  worm-eaten  and  covered 
with  dust.  Cosel  seized  it,  but  the  book  slipped  from 
her  hands,  and  the  yellow  leaves  scattered  on  the 
floor. 

In  that  room  there  was  an  iron  door,  leading  some- 
where into  the  mysterious  rooms  of  the  castle,  in  which 
no  living  human  voice  was  heard. 

The  day  was  breaking.  The  swallows  flew  round  the 
windows.  Cosel  returned  to  her  rooms.  The  women 
servants  that  accompanied  her  woke  up  and  offered  to 
serve  her.  She  dismissed  them.  Having  stayed  her 
hunger  with  some  warm  milk,  she  went  again  to  the 
window  ;  she  sat  on  the  stone  bench  and  began  to  look 
on  God's  world,  although  she  had  nobody  in  it.  She 
turned  her  eyes  on  the  road,  where  she  noticed  some 
vans,  men,  and  herds — clouds  of  dust.  But  she  soon 
tired  of  them  and  sat  at  a  distance  from  the  window. 

The  hours  were  long.  At  noon  they  brought  her 
luncheon.  One  of  the  servants  persuaded  her  to  eat. 
Cosel  went  to  the  table,  and,  looking  at  the  modest 
meal,  began  to  cry.  The  luncheons  at  which  she 
entertained  the  King  were  different! 

Then  again  she  went  to  the  windowr  and  looked  on 
to  the  road,  not  willing  to  avow  to  herself  that  she 
hoped  to  see  some  one  there.  She  believed  that 
Zaklika  would  seek  her  out. 

But  neither  on  that  nor  the  following  day  did  she  see 


270  The  Countess  Cosel 

anything  except  shepherds,  herds,  and  vans.  No  one 
looked  at  the  castle.  She  wandered  from  window  to 
window  ;  but  all  round  the  country  was  quiet  and 
deserted.  Towards  evening  she  perceived  a  small 
peasant  boy  picking  flowers  near  the  wall,  and  she 
threw  him  a  piece  of  money  that  she  found  in  her 
pocket,  and,  leaning  out,  she  asked  him  the  name  of 
the  castle.  The  boy  muttered,  "  Nossen,"  and  ran 
away  frightened. 

She  did  not  know  even  the  name,  but  she  remem- 
bered to  have  heard  it,  and  guessed  she  was  in  the 
vicinity  of  Meissen  and  Dresden.  She  again  thought 
of  Zaklika,  but  what  could  he  do  alone  against  walls, 
guards,  and  the  King  ? 

The  third  day  she  was  looking  on  the  road  when 
towards  noon  she  noticed  a  horseman.  He  was  riding 

o 

slowly  from  the  direction  of  Dresden. 

He  dropped  his  reins  and  looked  curiously  round 
the  country ;  he  had  raised  his  head  towards  the 
castle.  He  seemed  to  be  looking  for  something.  He 
wore  a  grey  mantle,  and  she  thought  it  was  her  faith- 
ful servant.  She  shivered,  and  began  to  wave  her 
handkerchief. 

The  cavalier  had  also  taken  out  his  handkerchief, 
and,  apparently  wiping  his  forehead,  made  signs  with 
it.  It  was  indeed  Zaklika.  His  mien  and  his  move- 
ments were  easily  recognized,  even  from  a  distance. 
Her  heart  began  to  throb  He  at  least  did  not  forget 
her  ;  he  could  save  her. 

Riding  slowly  and  looking  at  the  castle,  he  disap- 
peared behind  the  hill. 

Zaklika   had  remained  a  few  days    in    Halle    and 


The  Countess  Cosel  271 

watched.  He  wanted  to  follow  the  Countess,  hut  the 
Prussians  ordered  him  to  leave  the  country.  He 
made  his  way  to  Dresden,  where  he  went  directly  to 
Lehman. 

The  banker  received  him  with  evident  fear  ;  he  locked 
the  doors,  and  first  asked  him  whether  anybody  had 
seen  him.  Being  assured  that  Zaklika  had  not  met 
any  one  in  Dresden,  Lehman  breathed  more  easily. 
But  he  could  not  speak  for  quite  a  while,  and  when  he 
began  to  speak,  he  seemed  afraid  of  his  own  words. 

"  It  is  difficult  to  know,"  said  he,  "  what  was  the 
cause  of  that,  but  now  there  \vill  be  no  measure  to 
her  misfortune.  The  King  is  angry,  and  the  King's 
anger  is  cold  like  ice.  When  some  one  offends  him, 
he  is  inexorable.  Cosel  is  lost." 

Zaklika  listened. 

"  Yes,  she  is  lost !  "  continued  Lehman.  "  When 
the  King  wrongs  some  one,  he  persecutes  him,  and  will 
not  let  him  appear  in  his  presence.  Cosel  has  re- 
fused to  return  to  him  that  promise  of  marriage,  and 
he  will  never  forget  that.  They  have  confiscated  her 
all.  Lowendahl  received  orders  to  search  for  her  money 
and  jewels.  Pillnitz  is  taken  by  the  Treasury,  and  the 
other  estate  also." 

Here  Lehman  approached  Zaklika. 

"  They  have  taken  everything  from  me  too.  The 
King  sent  for  it.  The  books  showed  I  had  it ;  I 
could  not  refuse,"  he  added. 

"What !  everything  ?  But  not  that  secret  sum  that 
the  Countess  told  me  to  take  from  you  ?  " 

He  took  a  paper  that  was  sewn  in  his  sleeve.  The 
banker  took  it  with  trembling  hands. 


272  The  Countess  Cosel 

"And  do  you  know,"  said  he,  "what  would  become 
of  both  of  us  if  they  seized  that  paper  ?  They  would 
send  us  to  Konigstein,  and  my  children  would  become 
beggars.  Flemming  and  Lowendahl  would  seize  the 
pretext  to  look  into  my  safe."  And  he  trembled. 

"Then  you  have  given  them  that  sum  also  ?"  said 
Zaklika,  wringing  his  hands  in  despair. 

Lehman  looked  at  him  for  a  long  time  ;  he  seemed 
to  be  wrestling  with  himself. 

"  Listen,"  said  he.  "  Swear  to  me  upon  that  which 
you  hold  most  sacred,  that  you  will  not  betray  me 
even  should  they  threaten  you  with  death — " 

Here  the  Jew  took  from  a  drawer  a  diamond  cross 
pawned  by  the  Princess  Teschen. 

"  Swear  to  me  upon  that,"  said  he. 

Zaklika  took  the  cross,  and,  raising  his  hand,  said 
quietly, — 

((  I  swear  !  " 

Then  he  added, — 

"It  was  not  necessary  to  ask  me  for  an  oath :  my 
word  as  nobleman  would  be  enough.  Zaklika  has 
never  betrayed  any  one,  and  never  will." 

Lehman  looked  at  him,  and  he  was  as  white  as  a 
sheet. 

"  Suppose  they  should  catch  you  and  find  money 
upon  you  ?  " 

"  In  the  first  place  the  money  might  be  mine  ;  then 
the  Countess  may  have  made  me  a  present  of  it." 

"  But  they  take  everything  that  used  to  belong  to 
her." 

"  They  know  that  I  never  had  anything,  and  they 
will  not  search  me.  You  will  give  that  money." 


The  Countess  Cosel  273 

Lehman  still  hesitated. 

"  I  may  have  misfortunes  on  account  of  you,  but  it 
must  not  be  said  that  I  did  not  help  some  one  in 
misfortune." 

He  opened  the  safe,  took  out  a  bag,  and  began  to 
count  money  on  the  table.  Zaklika  breathed  again 
and  wiped  the  perspiration  from  his  forehead  ;  then  he 
sat  thoughtful,  leant  on  his  elbows,  and  fell  asleep  from 
fatigue. 

When  Lehman  had  finished  counting,  he  turned  to 
him,  and  perceived  that  he  had  fallen  asleep  ;  only  then 
did  he  understand  what  the  silent  man  had  suffered  if 
at  that  moment  he  could  sleep  so  soundly. 

He  went  quietly  to  another  room,  and  there  he 
waited  till  Zaklika  should  awaken.  He  wished  him  to 
do  so  as  soon  as  possible ;  for  notwithstanding  the 
pity  he  had  for  the  man,  he  was  afraid  to  have  him  in 
the  house. 

Zaklika,  who  had  fallen  asleep  from  fatigue,  but  in 
whom  the  soul  was  vigilant,  woke  up  soon,  and,  almost 
frightened,  jumped  from  his  place.  He  rubbed  his 
eyes  ;  he  was  ashamed  to  appear  so  feeble. 

He  glanced  at  the  money,  put  it  in  his  money  belt, 
and  buckled  it  under  his  dress. 

Lehman  was  waiting,  and  when  Zaklika  took  his 
leave  he  came  to  him,  and,  placing  his  hand  on  his 
shoulder,  said, — 

"  Only  God  knows  whether  we  shall  see  one  another 
again.  I  pity  you,  but  1  cannot  stop  you  from  an 
honest  deed.  You  have  noticed  my  hesitation,  but 
you  must  remember  ihat  I  live  for  my  children.  Now, 
listen  to  me.  I  had  in  my  possession  a  great  deal  of 

T 


274  The  Countess  Cosel 

money  belonging  to  the  Countess,  and  in  our  hands 
money  increases  rapidly.  Our  account  is  closed  ;  I 
have  paid  everything  ;  but  in  the  case  of  such  misfortune 
a  man  should  reckon  differently  ;  therefore,  take  this 
with  you,  and  may  God  lead  you." 

He  took  a  bag,  and,  handing  it  to  Zaklika,  said,— 

"  From  this  moment  you  do  not  know  me.  I  do  not 
know  you  either." 

"It  is  for  her,"  said  Zaklika,  shaking  hands  with 
him. 

"  Go  through  the  garden,"  said  the  Israelite. 

Zaklika  was  too  well  known  in  the  city  to  show 
himself.  He  had  left  his  horse  in  a  suburb,  at  the 
house  of  his  friend,  a  Wend.  During  his  wanderings 
he  had  been  struck  by  the  similarity  of  the  language  to 
his  own,  as  he  listened  to  these  Slavs  talking.  Speaking 
a  similar  language,  he  soon  struck  up  acquaintances 
among  them.  The  name  of  the  fisherman  with  whom 
Zaklika  became  acquainted  was  Hawlik.  He  had  a 
piece  of  land  reaching  to  the  bank  of  the  river,  but  as 
the  soil  was  not  very  good,  Hawlik  was  not  a  farmer, 
but  gained  his  living  by  fishing.  Year  in  year  out 
he  lived  his  life  in  poverty  and  sorrow. 

Zaklika  often  used  to  visit  him,  and  they  both 
chatted  of  their  misery.  The  Wend  remembered 
better  times.  "  All  around  us  used  to  belong  to  our 
people,"  said  he,  "  but  the  Germans  squeezed  us  out 
by  different  tricks,  and  now  it  is  dangerous  even  to 
speak  our  own  tongue.  They  do  not  give  us  any 
chance  in  the  cities ;  it  is  enough  to  be  a  Wend  to  be 
pushed  out.  Our  number  decreases,  but  there  is  no 
help  for  it.  It  seems  to  be  God's  will." 


The  Countess  Cosel  275 

Every  time  that  Zaklika  wanted  not  to  be  seen  in 
Dresden  he  went  to  Hawlik,  where  he  put  up  his 
horse  and  slept  in  the  attic,  and  where  he  was  always 
welcome  to  partake  of  the  modest  repast.  They  were 
glad  to  see  him  now  also.  They  never  asked  him  any 
questions — what  was  he  doing  or  what  had  he  come 
for. 

Zaklika  went  to  them  to  spend  that  night,  much 
troubled  whether  it  would  be  safe  for  him  to  show 
himself  in  the  city  and  get  some  news ;  he  was  afraid 
of  being  arrested.  Early  in  the  morning,  having 
wrapped  himself  up  carefully  in  his  mantle,  he  went 
across  the  bridge  to  Narrenhaus.  He  expected  to 
meet  Frohlich  as  he  went  to  the  castle,  and  learn 
something  from  him.  In  order  to  be  sure  of  not 
missing  him,  he  sat  on  the  steps  of  the  fool's  house 
and  waited.  Frohlich,  dressed  in  his  pointed  hat  and 
adorned  with  silver  key,  coming  out  of  his  house, 
noticed  a  man  sitting,  and,  not  recognizing  Zaklika, 
exclaimed, — 

"  Hey  !     Do  you  take  my  house  for  a  hostelry  ?  " 

Zaklika  turned  ;  the  fool  recognized  him. 

"  What  is  the  matter  with  you  ? "  he  exclaimed. 
"  You  look  as  if  you  were  married." 

"  I  have  returned  from  a  journey." 

"  You  are  a  Catholic,  then  you  must  have  been  in 
purgatory  ?  " 

"  I  wandered  through  the  world,"  answered  Zaklika. 
"  But  tell  me  what  is  going  on  here  ? " 

"You  wish  me  to  be  a  historiographer," 
laughed  the  fool.  "  You  had  better  ask  what  is 
not  going  on," 


276  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Do  you  know  what  has  become  of  my  former 
mistress  ?  "  asked  Zaklika. 

"  I  do  not  know  who  was  your  mistress." 

"  The  Countess  Cosel." 

Frohlich  looked  round  and  put  his  fingers  on  his 
lips. 

"  Who  pronounces  that  name?"  said  he.  "There 
is  nothing  to  laugh  at,  and  you  know  that  I  live  by 
laughter." 

"  But  you  can  tell  me  at  least  what  has  become  of 
her  ?  " 

"  Then  you  do  not  know  ?  Where  have  you 
been  ?  " 

"  Far." 

"  I  think  that  even  afar  they  talk  about  that.  That 
woman  in  whose  slavery  our  lord  was,  it  seems,  is  now 
imprisoned  by  him,  and  her  captivity  will  last  longer 
than  her  domination." 

"  And  where  is  she  ?  "  asked  Zaklika. 

%<  They  say  that  she  is  in  Nossen  Castle,  but  to  be 
sure  they  will  build  something  finer  for  her,"  laughed 
the  fool  by  habit,  but  sadly.  "  No !  I  would  not 
like  to  be  a  woman.  Speaking  frankly,  it  is  not  much 
comfort  to  be  a  man  either.  If  I  had  my  choice,  I 
would  like  to  be  a  donkey.  Nobody  eats  donkey's 
meat,  his  skin  is  thick,  and  when  long-ears  begins  to 
sing,  everybody  runs  away  and  leaves  him  alone.  If 
one  adds  that  he  has  always  a  good  appetite,  and  that 
he  can  live  on  old  broom,  one  sees  that  there  is  no 
happier  being  in  the  world." 

"  Nossen  !  Nossen  !  "  repeated  Zaklika  thoughtfully, 
having  forgotten  about  the  fool. 


The  Countess  Cosel  277 

"  I  am  talking  about  an  ass,  and  you  about  Nossen  ! 
Do  not  prattle  about  sad  things,  and  good-bye  !  " 

Frohlich,  having  put  the  official  smile  on  his  lips, 
went  away.  Zaklika  returned  to  Hawlik,  from  whom 
he  learned  where  the  castle  was  ;  and  he  started  in  its 
direction  the  same  day. 

He  was  very  glad  that  Cosel  had  noticed  him 
coming,  for  he  knew  that  he  would  bring  her  some 
consolation. 

He  went  to  the  inn  in  the  village,  where  he  assumed 
the  role  of  a  buyer  of  skins,  and  thus,  while  apparently 
going  round  on  business,  had  plenty  of  time  to  learn 
all  about  the  castle.  The  building  was  old,  and  Cosel's 
guard  was  composed  of  a  few  old  men.  They  did  not 
let  any  one  in,  but  they  did  not  watch  her  very  strictly. 
The  windows  were  very  high,  and  nobody  thought 
that  an  escape  could  be  accomplished  through  them  ; 
consequently  there  were  no  sentries.  The  soldiers 
spent  their  time  smoking  pipes  in  the  courtyard,  and 
at  Cosel's  door. 

In  the  rear  of  the  castle  one  could  approach  the 
windows  very  easily. 

In  order  to  have  a  good  pretext  for  longer  sojourn 
at  the  inn,  Zaklika  simulated  being  unwell.  The  inn- 
keeper was  glad  of  it,  for  he  had  to  feed  the  horse  as 
well  as  take  care  of  the  man. 

At  supper  he  learned  that  they  had  brought 
to  the  castle  the  lady  who  attempted  the  King's  life,  as 
well  as  how  many  soldiers  guarded  her.  Two  women 
servants,  a  cook,  and  a  boy  composed  the  whole  court 
of  this  lady  who  formerly  was  surrounded  by  a  crowd 
of  servants  dressed  in  cloth  of  gold. 


278  The  Countess  Cosel 

They  were  telling  wonders  about  the  prisoner. 

Zaklika  remained  a  couple  of  days  without  raising 
any  suspicion,  and  as  he  gave  a  couple  of  thalers  to  the 
innkeeper  on  account  of  skins,  he  felt  more  assured, 
and  one  day  he  went  out  towards  noon  to  look  at  the 
castle.  He  convinced  himself  that  from  one  side, 
where  was  the  forest,  he  could  steal  through  the 
undergrowth  near  to  the  walls  ;  but  he  could  not  find 
out  whether  there  were  any  windows  from  Cosel's 
room  on  this  side.  He  proposed  to  see  that  later. 

Towards  evening  he  returned  to  the  inn,  drank  the 
bears'-fat  recommended  to  him  by  the  innkeeper,  and 
went  to  bed,  thinking  how  he  could  deceive  the  German 
and  remain  longer  in  the  inn  without  exciting 
suspicion. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

THE  next  morning,  as  Zaklika  was  drinking  warmed 
beer  in  the  common  room,  there  entered,  with  a 
great  noise,  three  soldiers  from  the  guard  of  the 
castle. 

Zaklika  immediately  recognized  them  as  soldiers 
whom  he  had  seen  in  Dresden,  and  one  of  them  began 
to  look  at  him  attentively. 

"  Well,"  said  the  soldier,  leaning  on  the  table,  "  I 
seem  to  know  you." 

"  To  be  sure,"  answered  Zaklika.  "  for  I  was  a  lon» 

/  O 

time  in  service  at  the  Court,  till  I  took  to  business." 

"  Ah  !  you  are  the  man  who  breaks  horse-shoes  !  " 
exclaimed  the  soldier. 

"  Yes,  I  could  even  stop  an  ox  by  taking  it  by  the 
horns  ;  but  now  I  don't  know  whether  I  could  do  the 
same  even  with  a  sheep." 

The  soldier  saluted  him  smiling.  Zaklika  called 
for  beer  for  him,  and  they  became  friends. 

"  We  are  now  doing  penance,"  said  the  soldier. 
"We  are  in  Nossen  watching  a  petticoat !  It  is  fright- 
fully dull  there." 

"They  might  at  least  have  given  a  few  pretty  girls 
to  the  Countess,"  said  another  soldier. 

"  How  long  are  you  going  to  stay  here  ?  " 


280  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Who  knows  ?  And  it  is  so  dreadful  to  have 
nothing  to  do." 

"  Why  don't  you  play  cards  ?  "  said  Zaklika. 

"  With  whom  ?  And  then  we  don't  have  much 
money." 

He  gaped,  and  drank  the  beer. 

When  they  started  to  return  to  the  castle,  Zaklika 
accompanied  them  to  the  gate,  then,  still  talking,  he 
entered  the  courtyard  and  the  corridor. 

The  other  soldiers  were  not  surprised  at  the  new- 
comer ;  on  the  contrary,  they  were  glad  he  came. 
They  began  to  chat  together.  They  found  cards,  and 
won  from  him  two  thalers.  This  pleased  them  very 
much.  As  he  was  going,  he  expressed  a  wish  to 
see  the  castle,  and  nobody  objected  to  it.  The  officer 
was  in  the  town,  playing  the  guitar  to  a  butcher's 
daughter. 

He  was  not  able,  however,  to  do  anything  more 
that  day. 

Zaklika  stayed  on,  pretending  that  he  was  not  well, 
purchased  skins,  and  looked  about  for  a  way  of  stealing 
into  the  castle.  They  did  not  suspect  him,  but  the 
difficulties  were  great  from  the  position  of  the  castle. 
The  part  of  the  castle  in  which  the  Countess  was  im- 
prisoned adjoined  the  empty  portion  of  it.  There  the 
old  steward  and  his  family  were  living.  Through  the 
soldiers,  Zaklika  became  acquainted  with  him.  He 
was  avaricious,  and  had  a  large  family.  Treating  him 
with  beer,  Zaklika  learned  from  him  which  way  the 
windows  of  the  Countess's  rooms  looked  out,  and  also 
that  the  iron  door  of  the  tower,  of  which  the  steward 
had  the  key,  led  to  a  large  empty  hall.  Zaklika  told 


The  Countess  Cosel  281 

him  he  was  very  fond  of  old  buildings  ;  but  to  this  the 
steward  made  no  answer.  Another  day  they  were 
talking  about  the  Countess,  and  Zaklika  tried  to  arouse 
pity  for  her  in  the  steward.  They  looked  at  one 
another — the  steward  was  silent  again. 

"The  Countess,"  said  Zaklika,  "has  still  many 
friends  at  Court,  and  some  of  them  think  that  she  will 
return  to  the  King's  favour.  I  would  not  be  surprised 
if  some  of  them  appeared  here  one  day  and  offered 
you  a  handsome  sum  of  money  for  a  moment's  con- 
versation with  her." 

The  steward  muttered  something. 

"  What  would  you  do  in  that  case  ?  "  asked  Zaklika. 

"  It  would  be  a  devilish  temptation,"  answered  the 
steward.  "  I  would  do  as  Luther  did,  I  would  throw 
the  inkstand  at  the  devil !  " 

But  he  smiled. 

"  Suppose  someone  should  offer  you  thirty  thalers  ?  " 
asked  Zaklika. 

"  For  thirty  thalers  they  would  hang  me,"  laughed 
the  steward. 

"  But  it  is  not  a  crime  to  let  the  Countess  talk  for  a 
few  minutes  with  a  friend.  However,"  continued 
Zaklika,  "  we  are  talking  just  in  fun  ;  but  I  am  sure 
just  the  same  that  someone  would  give  you  even  fifty 
thalers." 

The  steward  looked  at  him  with  wide-open  eyes 
and  stroked  his  beard.  The  thought  of  getting  fifty 
thalers  intoxicated  him. 

"  If  you  know  someone  who  would  give  me  fifty 
thalers,  then  tell  him  to  come  and  see  me,"  answered 
the  German. 


282  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  Here  he  is,"  answered  Zaklika. 

"  I  thought  so." 

"  Conduct  me  to  the  empty  hall  when  the  women 
are  not  with  the  Countess;  I  shall  not  be  long  with 
her." 

"  Were  it  not  for  the  women  everything  could  be 
done  very  easily.  Unfortunately;  they  are  with  the 
Countess  by  turns." 

"  Tell  your  wife  to  invite  them." 

"  No,  a  woman  should  not  know  about  any- 
thing." 

"Yes,"  said  Zaklika;  "but  she  can  invite  them 
without  knowing  why." 

The  consultation  lasted  quite  a  while,  and  they 
agreed  that  at  the  next  opportunity  the  steward  should 
let  Zaklika  see  the  Countess. 

One  day,  as  she  was  in  her  chamber,  she  heard 
a  knocking  at  the  iron  door  oi  the  tower.  With 
throbbing  heart  she  rushed  there  and  knocked  at  it 
too.  At  that  moment  the  door  opened  and  Zaklika 
appeared. 

"  I  have  only  time  to  tell  you  that  I  am  in  the 
vicinity,  and  that  I  will  do  anything  to  come  to  your 
rescue." 

"  Help  me  to  escape  !  "  said  Cosel. 

"  It  is  impossible  just  now,"  said  Zaklika;  "at  least 
it  requires  a  great  deal  of  time.  You  must  rely  upon 
me — I  will  do  my  best.  Drop  a  cord  from  the  window 
in  the  tower,  and  I  will  attach  a  paper  with  the  news 
to  it,  for  it  will  be  impossible  for  us  to  see  one 
another." 

The  steward    began    to   grow    impatient.     Zaklika 


The  Countess  Cosel  283 

slipped  into  the  Countess's  hand  a  bag  of  money,  and 
whispered,— 

"  You  must  bribe  one  of  the  servants.  I  am  at  the 
inn  called  '  The  Golden  Horse  Shoe.' ' 

The  door  was  shut,  for  the  women  might  come  at 
any  moment,  but  the  Countess  grew  hopeful. 

Zaklika,  that  poor  servant,  on  whom  she  hardly 
deigned  to  look  from  the  height  of  her  majesty,  had 
not  betrayed  her. 

The  steward  took  the  fifty  thalers  with  unconcealed 
joy.  He  was  glad  of  the  opportunity  of  making  some 
money,  and  from  that  time  it  was  he  that  ran  after 
Zaklika,  who  had  already  conceived  a  plan  to  free  the 
Countess. 

The  next  day  the  steward  showed  him  the  castle, 
and  during  this  visit  Zaklika  noticed  that  there  was  a 
door  in  the  wall  near  the  road  ;  it  was  encumbered 
with  stones,  but  they  could  easily  be  cleared  out. 

But  it  was  not  enough  to  leave  the  castle,  it  was 
necessary  to  have  the  means  of  gaining  the  frontier 
and  finding  a  hiding-place  that  could  not  be  easily 
discovered  by  Augustus'  spies.  Zaklika  thought  that 
if  he  could  cross  Silesia  and  reach  Poland,  they  could 
hide  there,  for  he  knew  that  the  Saxon,  as  they  called 
Augustus  in  Poland,  had  many  enemies. 

To  purchase  horses  and  hire  people  for  the  flight 
was  a  difficult  task  in  Saxony,  where  the  King  had 
many  spies. 

The  next  day  Zaklika  attached  a  paper  to  a  string, 
telling  the  Countess  that  he  was  going  away  to  make 
preparations  for  her  escape.  Before  going  away,  he 
had  a  conversation  with  the  steward,  hinting  to  him 


284  The  Countess  Cosel 

that  there  might  come  an  opportunity  for  him  to  earn 
not  fifty,  but  a  thousand  thalers. 

"With  a  thousand  thalers  you  could  go  quietly  into 
the  Rhine  provinces  and  live  there  with  your  family  in 
your  own  house." 

The  old  man  did  not  say  a  word,  only  nodded. 

Having  drunk  lots  of  beer  with  the  soldiers  in 
saying  farewell,  he  told  them  he  would  come  back  for 
the  skins,  and  that  he  was  going  to  Dresden. 

After  his  departure,  Cosel  was  in  a  fever,  waiting 
for  news.  Every  day  she  rushed  to  the  window  and 
drew  up  the  string.  She  did  not  think  of  difficulties  ; 
it  seemed  to  her  that  the  man  ought  to  free  her 
immediately  when  she  had  told  him  to  do  so.  In  the 
meantime,  she  decided  to  bribe  one  of  the  servants. 

Both  of  them  were  gloomy  and  unfriendly,  but  the 
younger  was  more  accessible.  She  would  talk  a  few 
words  at  least  with  her  every  day.  Cosel  was  in  the 
habit  of  treating  every  one  in  a  queenly  manner  and 
assuring  them  of  her  favour.  She  was  always  majestic, 
thinking  that  she  was  the  King's  wife.  But  little  by 
little  she  assumed  a  more  gentle  manner  with  the 
young  servant  Madeleine.  She  could  not,  however, 
make  her  friendly  till  she  began  to  complain  of  the 
older  one.  The  money  acted  still  better,  but  a  month 
passed  before  she  could  count  upon  her. 

Zaklika  had  not  returned.  He  could  not  act  quickly, 
for  this  reason,  that  he  was  known  in  Dresden,  and 
the  purchase  by  him  of  a  carriage  and  horses  would 
arouse  suspicion.  Therefore  a  great  amount  of  cunning 
was  necessary  to  purchase  what  he  needed  without 
attracting  attention.  Through  the  Wend  he  made 


The  Countess  Cosel  285 

some  acquaintances  in  Budzishyne,  and  there  he  worked 
out  his  plans. 

It  took  a  good  deal  of  time,  however,  and  the  autumn 
passed  by  and  winter  came,  and  it  was  the  worst  time 
of  the  year  for  flight.  Zaklika  went  to  Nossen  in 
order  to  ask  Cosel  to  be  patient  until  the  spring.  The 
steward  was  paid  to  open  the  door,  at  which  Madeleine 
kept  watch,  and  they  were  able  to  talk  freely  and 
come  to  an  agreement  that  they  would  try  to  fly  in 
the  spring.  There  was  no  doubt  that  the  steward, 
tempted  by  the  money,  would  give  in. 

The  winter  was  long,  and  such  kind  of  enterprises, 
when  they  drag,  are  apt  to  furnish  a  chance  for  repen- 
tance on  the  part  of  those  who  help  to  accomplish 
them.  The  steward,  being  tipsy  on  one  occasion, 
said  something  about  jt  to  his  wife ;  the  rest  she  got 
out  of  him.  The  shrewd  woman  thought  that  when 
one  betrays  it  is  better  to  betray  everybody,  and  take 
all  possible  benefit  out  of  it.  According  to  her  opinion 
they  should  agree  to  take  the  money  from  Zaklika,  and 
then  communicate  the  plan  to  the  authorities  in  order 
not  to  lose  their  position,  and  thus  not  be  obliged  to 
fly  into  another  country. 

The  steward  smiled  at  the  shrewd  idea  of  his  cun- 
ning wife.  They  awaited  the  spring. 

The  Countess  was  so  sure  of  Madeleine  that  she 
told  her  all  about  it,  and  asked  her  to  go  with  her. 
The  woman  became  frightened  at  the  idea.  She 
wrestled  with  herself.  Under  the  pretext  of  seeing 
her  family,  she  asked  permission  to  go  to  Dresden. 
She  had  a  sister  in  the  service  of  Countess  Denhoff— 
she  went  to  see  her.  The  women  consulted  each 


286  The  Countess  Cosel 

other  and  agreed  that  it  would  be  best  to  tell  the 
Countess's  mother  of  the  plans  of  Cosel,  for  which  act 
they  were  sure  to  be  well  rewarded. 

The  fear  of  the  women  may  be  imagined  when  they 
learned  that  Cosel  could  escape.  Lowendahl  was 
called  up  at  once.  The  first  step  was  to  arrest  both 
women.  The  same  day  a  double  guard  of  soldiers 
went  to  Nossen  to  replace  those  that  were  there. 
They  doubled  the  sentries,  arrested  the  steward,  and 
led  him  in  chains  to  Dresden. 

During  the  night  sentries  were  placed  under  the 
windows.  In  the  morning  Cosel  found  in  the  ante- 
room an  unknown  officer,  who,  accompanied  by  an 
official,  searched  all  her  things  and  inspected  the  doors 
and  locks. 

She  was  angry,  but  did  npt  dare  to  ask  any 
questions,  being  afraid  that  Zaklika  might  be  detected 
and  arrested.  Happily  nobody  here  knew  him  by 
his  name,  for  he  had  taken  precautions  to  assume 
another. 

They  found  no  proofs  of  the  proposed  escape,  for 
she  had  destroyed  the  paper  written  by  Zaklika  ;  but 
from  that  time  life  in  Nossen  became  unbearable. 
New  servants  were  sent,  who  treated  the  Countess 
with  great  severity.  She  defended  herself  only  with 
pride  and  silence. 

When  the  official  had  left  the  room,  the  young 
officer,  having  a  more  tender  heart  than  the  others, 
said  to  her,— 

"  I  am  sure  the  Countess  does  not  remember  a  lad 
whom  she  has  seen  many  times  as  the  King's  page.  I 
am  here  on  a  sad  duty,  and  I  came  here  only  to  spare 


The  Countess  Cosel  287 

you  some  suffering  if  I  can.  You  must  try  not  to 
make  your  position  worse." 

Cosel  looked  at  him  proudly. 

"  If  you  wish  to  prove  to  me  your  sympathy,"  she 
said,  "  tell  me  then  what  they  have  discovered  and 
ho\v." 

"  I  do  not  know  the  details,"  said  the  officer. 
'•'  The  orders  were  given  by  Marshal  Lowendahl. 
They  have  changed  the  garrison  and  the  servants  ; 
the  steward  of  the  castle  is  arrested." 

"  And  who  besides  ?  " 

"  Nobody  else,  besides  the  servants,  I  believe," 
answered  the  officer.  "  I  will  come  to  see  you  every 
day.  I  shall  be  very  severe  in  the  presence  of  the 
servants,  but  I  will  do  anything  to  please  you." 

He  saluted  and  went  off. 

A  few  days  passed  by  in  fear  and  uncertainty. 
Zaklika,  having  learned  in  Dresden  that  the  plan  of 
escape  was  discovered,  kept  quiet,  waiting  to  see  if 
they  would  try  to  arrest  him.  He  understood  that  he 
could  not  show  himself  near  Nossen,  and  in  the  mean- 
time he  felt  it  would  relieve  the  Countess  if  she  knew 
he  was  still  free  and  that  she  could  count  on  him. 

In  consequence  he  dressed  as  a  beggar  and  stole  at 
nights  to  the  castle.  During  the  day,  lying  in  the 
thickets,  he  noticed  that  the  string  was  not  at  the 
window,  and  that  a  sentry  was  beneath  it.  Com- 
munication with  the  Countess  was  therefore  very 
difficult,  and  he  racked  his  brains  how  he  could  do  it. 
Wandering  through  the  country,  notwithstanding  the 
snow  and  cold,  he  met  a  pedlar  named  Trene  selling 
various  wares  for  Christmas.  He  had  a  small  van 


288  The  Countess  Cosel 

which  he  used  to  draw  to  an  inn,  to  which  the 
women  came  to  make  their  purchases,  while  to  the 
houses  of  the  richer  people  he  carried  the  goods 
himself. 

Zaklika  had  known  this  pedlar  in  Dresden.  He 
stopped  him  and  reminded  him  that  he  used  to  make 
purchases  from  him  at  the  Wend's  house. 

"  In  Nossen,"  said  Zaklika,  "  you  can  do  good 
business,  for  in  the  castle  the  Countess  Cosel  is  im- 
prisoned. I  am  sure  she  will  purchase  some  presents 
for  the  servants." 

The  pedlar's  eyes  sparkled. 

"Thank  you  for  the  advice,"  said  he.  "I  never 
should  have  thought  of  it." 

•'When  you  are  there,"  said  Zaklika,  "remember 
me  to  her,  for  I  was  in  her  service  formerly." 

"  What  shall  I  tell  her  ? "  asked  the  pedlar. 

"  Tell  her  that  her  servant  who  used  to  break 
horseshoes  is  free,  and  wanders  throughout  God's 
world.  Where  are  you  going  from  Nossen  ?"  asked 
Zaklika. 

"  I  think  home,  for  Christmas  is  not  far  off,  and  I 
would  like  to  spend  it  with  my  family." 

"  Then  perhaps  we  shall  meet  on  the  road." 

The  pedlar,  like  all  sellers  when  it  is  a  question 
of  gain,  knew  how  to  act.  When  he  came  to  the 
town  he  went  straight  to  the  castle.  The  soldiers 
wanted  to  drive  him  away  ;  but  he  raised  such  a  din 
that  the  officer  came  out.  He  was  more  indulgent, 
and  sent  to  the  Countess,  asking  her  whether  she 
would  admit  a  pedlar.  For  distraction's  sake  Cosel 
consented. 


The  Countess  Cosel  289 

The  modest  wares  of  the  poor  pedlar  did  not  satisfy 
her  refined  taste,  and  she  was  looking  contemptuously 
at  them,  when  Herr  Trene  whispered  to  her, — 

"  I  was  asked  to  tell  you  that  your  faithful  servant, 
the  horseshoe-breaker,  is  in  good  health,  and  wanders 
free  through  God's  world." 

"  Who  told  you  this  ?  "  asked  Cosel. 

"He  himself,"  answered  Trene.  "  I  met  him  in 
the  neighbourhood." 

When  the  Countess  had  heard  those  words  she 
purchased  a  lot  from  him,  and  the  pedlar  was  surprised 
at  his  good  luck.  He  left  the  castle  happy.  He  also 
did  good  business  in  the  inn,  and  was  obliged  to  stay 
overnight.  The  next  day  he  met  Zaklika  on  the  road 
to  Dresden.  He  greeted  him  cordially. 

"  Did  you  tell  her  about  me  ?"  asked  the  Pole. 

"  Yes,"  answered  Trene,  "  and  evidently  the 
Countess  was  pleased.  I  did  good  business.  I  thank 
you." 

In  the  meantime  the  prisoners  were  questioned  in 
Dresden.  The  steward  was  intelligent  enough  not  to 
avow  anything  whatever,  and  they  released  him  ;  but 
he  lost  his  position.  The  women  were  released  too, 
but  not  rewarded. 

The  King  ordered  that  Cosel  should  be  watched 
carefully.  He  knew  her  too  well,  and  was  aware  that 
she  could  be  dangerous.  When  he  learned  of  the  plan 
for  escape,  he  ordered  Stolpen  Castle  to  be  prepared  for 
her.  It  was  a  stronghold,  built  on  basalt  rock  ;  the 
same  which  Cosel  had  once  visited  with  the  King,  and 
it  was  while  riding  there  that  she  met  the  Slav  woman, 
Mlawa,  who  foretold  her  future. 


290  The  Countess  Cosel 

At  once  orders  were  sent  to  Stolpen  to  furnish 
the  St.  John's  tower,  in  which  the  Bishop  of  Meissen 
used  to  imprison  refractory  priests.  Augustus  was 
offended  and  angry.  The  unconquered  will  of  a 
woman  mocked  his  might  ;  a  woman  dared  to  ask 
him  to  keep  his  promise,  and  accuse  him  of  breach 
of  faith.  It  was  unpardonable  daring  ;  and  who- 
ever drew  the  lord's  anger  upon  himself,  for  him 
there  was  no  mercy. 

Two  days  before  Christmas  there  was  a  great  stir  in 
Nossen  Castle.  There  was  sent  from  Dresden  another 
detachment  of  soldiers  and  a  carriage,  with  the  King's 
order  to  transport  Cosel  to  Stolpen. 

The  surprised  officer  did  not  dare  to  enter  the 
Countess's  room  with  the  new  order,  which  announced 
to  her  a  still  harder  lot. 

Cosel,  hearing  an  unaccustomed  noise,  rushed  to 
the  door.  She  still  hoped  at  times  that  Augustus, 
whom  she  had  not  ceased  to  love,  would  have  pity  on 
her,  and  she  thought  that  as  a  Christmas  present  he 
had  granted  her  freedom.  She  stood  trembling  when 
an  official  entered  and  bowed  to  her  profoundly.  The 
apparition  of  the  scribbler  was  the  worse  message  for 
her.  He  was  holding  a  paper  in  one  hand,  spectacles 
in  the  other ;  he  was  trembling  too. 

"  What  do  you  wish  ?  "  asked  Cosel. 

"  I  have  brought  an  order  signed  by  His  Majesty 
the  King,  who  has  kindly  designated  Countess  Cosel 
Stolpen  Castle  as  her  place  of  abode." 

The  Countess  rushed  screaming  towards  the  wall 
as  though  she  would  tear  it  down.  The  servants 
tried  to  hold  her,  but  she  pushed  them  away  vigorously 


The  Countess  Cosel 


291 


with  cries   and   moans.     The  official  stood   by   as   if 
turned  to  stone. 

They  were  obliged  to  conduct  her  by  force  to  the 
carriage,  in  which  she  was  taken  to  Stolpen,  and 
lodged  in  St.  John's  and  Donat's  towers,  on  the  25th 
of  December,  1716. 


CHAPTER   XXIV. 

OLD  Stolpen  Castle  was  then  in  a  half-ruined  condition. 
The  summits  of  its  towers  had  been  destroyed  by 
lightning,  and  the  old  building  would  hardly  shelter  a 
small  garrison.  The  commandant  of  the  castle,  Johan 
Friederich  von  Wehlen,  occupied  one  of  the  uncom- 
fortable towers;  the  other,  called  Johannisturm,  was 
destined  for  the  unfortunate  favourite  of  Augustus. 

The  former  inhabitant  of  luxurious  palaces  was  now 
obliged  to  be  satisfied  with  two  rooms,  one  of  which 
was  intended  as  the  kitchen,  the  second  for  the 
Countess  herself. 

When  she  looked  round  this  bare  and  dreary  room, 
lighted  by  small  windows,  she  gave  way  to  despair,  and 
continued  to  weep  so  bitterly  that  they  were  obliged 
to  watch  her  continually.  Her  guards  and  servants, 
specially  chosen  that  they  could  not  be  bribed, 
stood  motionless  at  the  sight  of  such  an  outburst 
of  grief. 

Wehlen,  an  old  soldier,  who  never  made  war  against 
women,  lost  his  head  and  patience.  It  was  a  hard 
thing  for  him  to  be  severe  on  this  unfortunate,  but 
still  beautiful  woman.  The  first  day  of  Christmastide, 
celebrated  with  such  solemnity  throughout  the  world, 
was  spoiled  for  him  by  the  scene  of  despair.  The 


The  Countess  Cosel  293 

sentries  walking  under  the  walls  were   afraid  of  the 
crying  and  screaming  of  that  unfortunate  lady. 

She  spent  the  whole  night  in  this  way,  till  finally 
she  fell  upon  the  bed,  half-dead  from  exhaustion.  The 
women  whispered  that  she  would  die.  The  third  day 
Cosel  rushed  from  the  bed  and  asked  for  some  paper  ; 
she  wanted  to  write  to  the  King. 

They  had  foreseen  this  wish,  and  the  order  was  for 
all  her  letters  to  be  sent  to  Lowenclahl.  Augustus 
had  strictly  forbidden  any  communication  to  be 
brought  him  from  Cosel,  and  ordered  her  correspond- 
ence to  be  burned  ;  but  she  was  not  forbidden  to  write 
and  to  have  some  hope.  Cosel  still  believed  in 
Augustus'  heart. 

When  the  first  outburst  of  despair  had  passed,  she 
looked  around  and  recognized  the  walls  which  had 
frightened  her  so  much  when  she  visited  them  with 
the  King.  From  the  windows  she  could  see  the  thick 
high  walls  surrounding  the  castle,  and  in  the  distance 
the  blue  mountains  covered  with  woods,  bare  hills,  and 
the  country  which  looked  as  if  it  were  uninhabited. 

This  made  her  the  prey  to  solitude,  reminiscences, 
watching  the  soldiers,  harassing  the  servants  who 
were  at  the  same  time  her  guards  and  executioners. 

Wehlen  had  received  the  strictest  orders  to  watch 
her  carefully,  a  responsibility  which  in  those  days 
might  cost  him  his  own  life.  Those  who  wrote  the 
instructions,  it  is  true,  had  recommended  politeness 
towards  the  woman  ;  but  the  watchfulness  must  be  so 
strict  as  to  destroy  all  hope  of  flight.  At  first  glance 
such  a  thing  as  flight  seemed  impossible.  The  castle 
was  surrounded  by  high  walls  ;  the  St.  John's  tower 


294  The  Countess  Cosel 

was  strong,  and  it  had  been  lighted  by  so  many 
windows  that  the  sentries  walking  beneath  them  could 
see  what  the  prisoner  was  doing.  Two  courtyards 
had  to  be  crossed  before  the  tower  could  be  reached. 

At  the  gateway  were  sentries  ;  the  castle  was  on 
a  high  mount  dominating  the  country,  every  one 
approaching  it  could  be  seen. 

There  was  nobody  except  the  commandant,  two 
officers,  a  handful  of  soldiers,  and  the  Countess's 
servants  in  the  castle.  Nobody  could  enter  it  without 
the  commandant's  special  permission,  and  the  gates 
were  always  shut. 

Old  Von  Wehlen,  who  had  never  seen  the  Countess, 
and  concluded  that  the  King  did  not  care  for  her 
because  she  was  old,  was  amazed  when  he  set  eyes  on 
her  for  the  first  time,  Cosel  was  then  thirty-six  years 
of  age,  and  God  had  granted  her  eternal  beauty 
and  strength.  Her  face  bore  no  traces  of  suffering, 
and  perhaps  she  was  never  more  charming  than  then. 
The  brightness  of  her  eyes,  the  freshness  of  her 
complexion,  her  majestic  figure,  and  statuesque  shape, 
made  those  who  looked  at  her  wonder.  In  cynical 
disdain,  and  as  if  sneering  at  her  present  position,  Cosel 
assumed  the  manners  and  speech  of  a  queen.  She  gave 
her  orders,  and  in  her  voice  there  was  pride  in  pro- 
portion to  her  misfortune. 

The  days  were  long,  weary  and  monotonous.  Cosel 
filled  them  with  memories  and  sometimes  with  hope. 
She  cursed  Augustus'  cruelty,  but  she  could  not 
understand  how  the  one  who  had  loved  her  so  tenderly 
could  become  such  a  terrible  executioner. 

The   letters    that    she    wrote    became    by    habit    a 


The  Countess  Cosel  295 

necessity.  By  the  silence  she  knew  that  it  was  in  vain, 
but  at  the  same  time  she  felt  better  when  she  had 
committed  her  thoughts  to  paper,  which  could  be  only 
scorn  for  other  people. 

When  they  had  packed  up  her  things  in  Nossen, 
some  one  had  picked  up  the  old  Bible,  and  the  Countess 
was  constantly  reading  its  pages,  in  which  so  many 
sorrows  are  expressed.  Those  stray  leaves  aroused  in 
her  the  desire  to  read  the  whole  book.  She  sent  to 
the  commandant  to  buy  a  Bible  for  her.  He  asked 
permission  from  Dresden  ;  they  ordered  her  desire  to 
be  gratified  ;  and  from  that  time  the  Bible  was  con- 
stantly en  her  table.  In  reading  it  she  found,  if  not 
consolation,  at  least  forgetfulness.  From  it  she  learned 
that  for  thousands  of  years  life  had  been  constant 
torture. 

Thus  she  found  the  spring !  The  spring,  which 
awakes  everything  to  life,  was  only  going  to  prolong 
her  sufferings.  The  swallows  came  to  the  old  nests  to 
repair  them  again  ;  the  trees  began  to  open  their  buds 
towards  the  sun.  Over  the  earth  there  blew  a  warm 
air,  mingled  with  the  scent  of  flowers.  Even  around 
the  castle  some  life  appeared  ;  the  ploughmen  went 
freely  to  the  fields — she  alone  could  not  move.  Cosel 
used  to  stay  at  the  window  for  hours  deep  in  thought, 
and  did  not  notice  that  a  soldier,  astonished  at  her 
beauty,  would  often  look  at  her,  and  ask  himself  what 
this  angel-like  woman  could  have  done  to  merit 
imprisonment.  Old  Von  Wehlen,  smoking  his  pipe  on 
the  ramparts,  looked  also  at  her  windows,  and  his 
thoughts  were  bitter ;  his  heart  heaved,  for  he  felt  that 
he  loved  his  lord  Friederich  Augustus  less. 


296  The  Countess  Cosel 

He  pitied  her.  The  space  in  which  she  could  walk 
consisted  of  a  small  room  in  the  tower,  which  the  sun 
could  not  warm. 

At  the  foot  of  the  St.  John's  tower  there  was  a  piece 
of  land,  surrounded  by  the  wall  of  the  fortress — enough 
space  for  a  comfortable  grave.  In  that  corner  there 
grew  wormwood,  wild  thyme  and  wild  pinks.  Wehlen 
thought  it  could  be  turned  into  a  little  garden ;  but  to 
make  the  garden,  permission  would  be  necessary,  for 
it  would  make  it  pleasanter,  and  to  show  pity  for  the 
rebellious  woman  would  mean  to  make  her  bolder. 
Consequently  he  made  a  garden  for  himself,  thinking 
that  the  Countess  would  at  least  look  on  the  flowers. 

Cosel  looked  from  the  window,  and  noticing  that 
they  were  digging,  she  withdrew,  thinking  that  they 
were  making  a  grave.  Only  when,  after  some  time, 
she  perceived  some  flowers  there,  she  smiled  at  them. 

It  seemed  to  her  that  if,  instead  of  sitting  on  the 
stones,  she  could  rest  on  the  earth,  she  would  revive. 
The  flowers  could  be  her  confidants  and  companions  ; 
but  considering  herself  a  queen,  she  could  not  ask  for 
it — she  preferred  to  suffer. 

At  last,  considering  that  she  could  not  escape  from 
it,  old  Wehlen  told  the  servant  to  tell  the  Countess  that 
she  could  go  there.  And  when  one  morning  she  went 
down  to  see  her  garden,  the  air  seemed  to  intoxicate 
her ;  she  was  obliged  to  lean  for  a  while  against  the 
wall. 

From  that  time  she  used  to  spend  whole  days  in  the 
garden,  taking  care  of  the  flowers,  which  she  planted 
herself  then. 

Thus  passed   the  spring   and  summer  without  any 


The  Countess  Cosel  297 

change  or  hope.  There  was  no  answer  to  her  letters  ; 
nobody  came  to  see  her.  Out  of  an  immense  fortune 
taken  from  her,  they  paid  her  about  three  thousand 
thalers,  which  she  could  use  as  she  pleased  ;  but  the 
commandant  controlled  all  her  expenses,  and  she  could 
not  transact  any  business  without  his  knowledge. 

Since  coming  to  Stolpen  she  had  been  waiting  for 
Zaklika  ;  but  month  after  month  passed,  and  there  was 
no  news  from  him.  Once,  however,  a  Jew  pedlar,  who 
used  to  bring  her  different  things,  whispered  to  her 
that  the  one  who  used  to  break  the  horseshoes  was  still 
alive,  and  that  she  should  see  him.  Those  few  words 
were  sufficient  to  awaken  in  her  a  slumbering  hope. 

In  the  meantime  Zaklika  was  working  constantly. 
His  plans  of  facilitating  the  escape  of  the  Countess 
from  Nossen  being  ruined,  he  was  obliged  to  begin 
anew.  He  knew  that  Cosel  was  imprisoned  in 
Stolpen. 

This  cruelty  they  tried  to  justify  by  spreading  reports 
that  Cosel,  when  in  Berlin,  had  tried  to  plot  against 
the  King's  life,  that  she  had  threatened  to  kill  him, 
that  she  was  mad,  and  called  herself  a  queen.  And 
they  ended  in  whispers  that  Augustus  was  ashamed 
of  the  levity  with  which  he  had  given  her  a  promise 
of  marriage  although  the  Queen  was  living.  That 
promise,  notwithstanding  all  efforts,  they  could  not 
find  or  get  back.  It  was  the  first  time  that  Augustus 
had  acted  with  such  cruelty,  and  it  frightened  even 
the  Countess  Denhoff,  although  she  could  not  flatter 
herself  that  she  was  much  loved  by  the  King. 

It  was  true  that  her  court  was  quite  brilliant,  but 
her  following  had  no  political  weight.  Even  those 


298  The  Countess  Cosel 

who  had  helped  her  to  rise,  in  order  to  get  rid  of 
Cosel,  kept  away  from  her.  Watzdorf  alone,  who 
thought  through  her  to  overthrow  Flemming,  was 
attached  to  her,  and  served  her  by  asking  the  King 
for  considerable  sums  of  money,  which  she  squandered 
lavishly,  sometimes  spending  10,000  thalers  on  a  ball. 
She  was  then  already  not  counting  on  the  King's 
long-continued  favours,  and  she  looked  after  Bosenval 
and  the  young  Lubomirski,  who  seemed  to  be  fond 
of  her. 

Augustus'  cold  and  sometimes  cruel  treatment  of 
his  best  favourite  warned  the  others  to  be  armed 
against  the  caprices  of  their  lord,  who  could  take  every- 
thing from  them.  Thus  Hoym,  the  Countess  Cosel's 
ex-husband,  whom  the  King  needed  but  did  not  like, 
remembering  the  fate  of  Beichling,  Imhoff,  and  even 
his  ex-wife,  had  sold  his  estate  in  Saxony,  sent  away 
the  money,  and,  resigning  from  the  Saxon  service,  had 
retired  to  Silesia. 

With  Denhoff  the  reign  of  omnipotent  King's 
favourites  was  ended.  The  actors  of  those  comedies 
and  dramas  grew  old  and  died  out.  The  King  him- 
self lost  his  taste  for  noisy  amusements.  Leipzig  fair 
alone  could  distract  and  animate  him  for  a  while. 

Zaklika  had  been  for  a  long  time  thinking  of  the 
best  means  to  help  Cosel.  He  did  not  know  Stolpen  ; 
he  went  to  see  it.  He  could  stop  safely  in  the  town, 
for  they  paid  no  attention  to  travellers.  Here  he 
learned  everything — who  was  the  commandant  of  the 
castle,  and  that  it  was  difficult  to  get  in. 

Zaklika  racked  his  brains  to  find  a  way,  and  he 
returned  to  Dresden  with  the  determination  to  act 


The  Countess  Cosel  299 

openly.  He  had  plenty  of  acquaintances  from  former 
times,  but  no  friends.  In  the  meantime,  however, 
there  came  some  lords  from  Poland,  through  whose  in- 
fluence he  might  do  something.  Zaklika  thought  that 
the  best  way  would  be  to  try  to  enter  the  military 
service,  and  be  sent  to  the  garrison  at  Stolpen.  The 
way  was  long  and  difficult,  but  Zaklika  had  an  iron 
will  and  boundless  self- sacrifice.  With  the  Polish  lords 
his  old  name  was  of  itself  a  good  recommendation. 

When  he  appeared  at  the  Court,  they  were  quite 
surprised,  for  they  knew  he  had  been  with  Cosel ;  but 
no  one  asked  him  what  he  had  been  doing  since  her 
downfall.  Zaklika  told  every  one  that  he  had  been  in 
Poland  for  some  time.  When  the  Bishop  of  Cracow, 
Sieniawski,  came  to  Dresden,  Zaklika  decided  to  try 
through  him  to  purchase  a  grade  of  captain  in  the 
Saxon  army. 

On  the  Bishop  mentioning  Zaklika's  name  to  the 
King,  Augustus  frowned,  but  ordered  him  to  be  called. 
He  had  not  seen  him  for  several  years,  and  found  him 
greatly  changed.  He  looked  at  him  suspiciously,  but 
finding  him  bold  but  quiet,  and  learning  that  he  left 
the  Countess  of  himself,  he  raised  no  objection  to  his 
entering  the  army.  The  only  question  was  to  pur- 
chase the  commission,  which  he  soon  was  able  to  do. 
Zaklika  had  saved  some  money  ;  he  soon  concluded 
the  bargain  with  the  German,  and  once  again  he  wore 
a  uniform,  still  more  magnificent  than  before. 

Great  disorder  reigned  in  the  Saxon  army  ;  some- 
times officers  did  not  see  their  regiments  for  years  ; 
they  preferred  to  remain  in  the  capital,  and  boast 
before  the  women  about  their  marvellous  bravery. 


300  The  Countess  Cosel 

They  did  not  respect  orders,  and  led  a  dissipated  life. 
All  that  was  the  worst  in  the  country  served  in  the 
army  ;  adventurers,  gamblers,  usurers,  blacklegs.  The 
generals  lived  on  the  soldiers,  and  the  latter,  being 
driven  to  despair,  and  following  the  example  of  their 
officers,  lived  as  they  could. 

Such  disorder  was  favourable  to  Zaklika  for  carrying 
out  his  plans  with  money,  and  it  was  not  difficult, 
having  become  acquainted  with  comrades,  to  find  the 
way  to  replace  some  one  in  the  garrison  of  Stolpen, 
which  was  considered  a  horrid  prison. 

Old  Wehlen  being,  as  he  learned,  a  quiet  and  a 
good  man,  continually  playing  draughts  and  smoking 
tobacco,  would  not  be  difficult  to  deceive. 

Cosel  was  greatly  astonished  when,  after  several 
long  months  of  waiting,  the  pedlar  Jew  announced  to 
her  that  the  horseshoe-breaker  would  appear  again. 


CHAPTER   XXV. 

ANOTHER  spring  appeared,  and  for  the  second  time 
the  garden  became  green  ;  then  the  same  flowers  raised 
their  heads  towards  the  sun.  Cosel  opened  the 
window  ;  the  day  was  warm  ;  the  air  quiet  and  mild. 

\Yhile  sitting  in  her  little  garden  she  could  see  the 
soldiers  and  officers  passing  through  the  courtyard, 
from  which  she  was  separated  by  a  low  wall.  The 
proud  lady  did  not  like  her  fallen  grandeur  to  be 
looked  at,  but,  being  weary,  she  was  glad  sometimes  to 
see  a  human  face,  forgetting  that  she  was  queen.  And 
sometimes  a  soldier  stood  looking  at  her  with  com- 
miseration, and  the  younger  officers  lost  their  heads 
when  they  looked  for  long  into  her  burning  black 
eyes. 

One  of  those  who  walked  very  often  in  the  neigh- 
bourhood of  the  garden  as  a  pretext  for  approaching  the 
beautiful  woman  was  young  Wehlen,  nephew  of  the 
commandant.  The  old  man  kept  him  for  two  reasons  ; 
to  have  a  partner  for  his  game  of  draughts,  and  to 
look  after  his  military  career. 

Henry  von  Wehlen  did  not  like  the  service,  but  his 
mother,  wishing  him  to  be  made  heir  by  the  com- 
mandant, who  was  an  old  and  rich  bachelor,  persuaded 
her  son  to  obey  him.  This  twenty-year  old  Wehlen 


302  The  Countess  Cosel 

found  life  terribly  dull  on  the  basalt  rock  of  Stolpen, 
but  could  not  escape  from  it. 

What  bliss,  then,  for  the  young  man  dreaming  in 
solitude  was  the  arrival  of  such  a  beautiful  if  unhappy 
prisoner!  At  the  first  sight  of  Anna,  Henry  lost  his 
head.  He  could  not  understand  how  they  could  keep 
such  an  ideal  of  an  earthly  goddess  between  walls,  and 
let  her  die  little  by  little.  With  the  ardour  of  first, 
pure,  exalted,  but  concealed  love,  young  Wehlen  was 
attracted  towards  the  beautiful  woman.  The  old  com- 
mandant did  not  notice  these  sentiments  in  his  nephew. 
He  was  the  most  prosaic  of  men,  and  did  not  care  for 
feminine  beauty.  Formerly  he  had  a  smile  for  them 
all,  but  now  for  none  of  them. 

It  was  Henry  who  had  carefully  suggested  to  him  to 
permit  the  Countess  to  enjoy  the  garden.  Very  often 
acting  as  lieutenant  to  his  uncle,  he  was  practically 
master  of  the  castle,  and  Cosel  knew  well  that  she 
could  count  on  him,  although  she  seldom  deigned  to 
look  at  him.  She  preferred  to  wait  for  Zaklika. 

How  great  was  her  surprise  and  pleasure  one  day, 
on  going  into  the  garden,  to  perceive  Henry  Wehlen 
and  Zaklika  in  the  courtyard,  talking  quite  amicably. 
The  latter  she  recognized  by  his  voice,  for  the  uniform 
altered  his  appearance  very  much.  She  could  hear  the 
loud  conversation ;  Zaklika  was  telling  him  that  he 
succeeded  Captain  Zitaner,  who  was  in  a  great  hurry  to 
visit  his  family. 

"  Captain  von  Wehlen,"  said  Captain  von  Zaklika, 
"it  is  not  very  cheerful  staying  here  among  ruins. 
Had  I  known  it  was  such  a  horrid  place — " 

"  It  is  a  bad  place,"  answered  Henry  von  Wehlen, 


The  Countess  Cosel  303 

"for  those  who  want  merry-making;  but  those  who 
are  fond  of  beautiful  nature  can  live  here  very 
happily." 

Cosel  listened,  but  she  turned  away  in  order  not 
to  betray  the  interest  she  was  taking  in  the  con- 
versation. 

"  Captain  von  Wehlen,"  said  Zaklika,  "  if  it  could  be 
clone,  you  should  introduce  me  to  the  Countess." 

"  With  great  pleasure,"  said  Wehlen,  who  was  glad 
to  have  a  pretext  for  approaching  the  Countess. 

They  both  went  towards  the  wall  of  the  garden. 
Captain  von  Wehlen  saluted  the  Countess. 

"  Permit  me  to  introduce  to  you  Captain  von  Zaklika, 
newly  arrived." 

Cosel  turned,  apparently  with  indifference,  and 
bowed  slightly  to  the  new-comer,  who  stood  pale,  full 
of  emotion,  looking  at  that  beautiful  face,  still  alight 
with  the  same  charm  which  first  shone  for  him  under 
the  linden  trees  in  Laubegast. 

After  a  moment  of  silence  the  Countess  said, — 

"  Are  you  here  on  a  visit  ?  " 

"  No,  madam,  I  am  on  service,  which  I  daresay  will 
last  quite  a  long  time,  for  I  doubt  whether  anybody 
would  care  to  exchange  with  me." 

"It  is  surely  the  worst  prison  any  one  could  find," 
exclaimed  the  Countess.  "  In  a  dark  room  the  world 
is  unseen,  and  so  forgotten ;  but  here  the  whole  vast 
horizon  lies  before  one's  eyes,  separated  only  by  a  big 
wall." 

The  officers  stood  speechless. 

"  What  have  you  done  that  they  send  you  here  ?  " 
added  the  Countess. 


304  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  It  is  the  caprice  of  destiny." 

Then  they  saluted  and  went  off. 

Wehlen  took  Zaklika's  arm,  and  conducted  him  into 
the  third  courtyard  of  the  castle,  where  he  occupied  a 
couple  of  rooms,  and  where  he  also  wanted  to  lodge 
his  new  comrade. 

"Captain  von  Zaklika,"  said  he,  "  I  am  sure  this 
is  the  first  time  you  have  seen  the  Countess  Cosel. 
What  do  you  say  about  her  beauty  ?  Is  she  not  worthy 
of  the  throne  ? " 

He  said  this  with  such  enthusiasm  that  he  betrayed 
his  secret,  which  he  did  not  perhaps  intend  to  hide 
before  Zaklika. 

"I  do  not  wonder  at  your  enthusiasm,"  said  the 
latter;  "  but  from  your  enthusiasm  one  would  imagine 
you  were  in  love." 

"We  are  both  soldiers,"  answered  Wehlen,  "and 
honest  folks  ;  why  should  I  deny  it  ?  I  have  lost  my 
head  looking  at  her.  I  am  not  ashamed  either. 
There  is  not  another  woman  like  her  in  the  world." 

"  But,"  said  Zaklika,  "  you  should  remember  that  a 
woman  who  was  the  King's  wife  would  not  look  upon 
another  man.  Then  so  many  misfortunes  have  withered 
her  heart ;  finally,  she  is  a  prisoner  for  ever !  " 

"  For  ever  !  "  interrupted  Wehlen.  "  What  lasts 
for  ever  ?  She  is  so  beautiful  !  " 

Zaklika  smiled. 

"  You  are  so  young,"  he  said. 

"  You  are  right  ;  I  am  young  ;  but  who  could  resist 
the  charm  of  her  looks  ?  You  have  seen  my  uncle, 
his  grey  hair,  wrinkled  face,  quenched  eyes.  Well, 
he  looks  at  her  from  afar  and  sighs,  till  a  game  of 


The  Countess  Cosel  305 

draughts  makes  him  forget  her.  The  soldiers  look  at 
her  as  at  a  picture  ;  then  how  can  a  youth  of  twenty 
resist  her  beauty  ?  " 

The  same  day  they  went  to  look  over  the  castle, 
and  already  Zaklika  tried  to  form  some  plans  of  escape. 
He  found  there  was  only  one  way  to  get  out  of  the 
castle,  and  this  was  a  subterranean  corridor  from  the 
tower  to  the  chapel,  from  which  there  was  a  narrow 
passage  to  the  outside.  Seeing  this,  he  already  had  a 
plan.  The  Countess,  dressed  in  man's  clothing,  would 
go  down  and  slip  into  the  exterior  courtyard,  where 
no  sentries  were  posted.  From  there  one  could  reach 
the  door  in  the  passage  during  the  night.  It  would 
not  be  a  difficult  matter  to  get  a  couple  of  horses  in 
the  town,  and  the  frontier  was  not  far  away. 

A  few  days  later  he  found  an  opportunity  of  entering 
Cosel's  room  without  arousing  any  suspicion.  The 
Countess  extended  her  hand  to  him. 

"  You  have  made  me  wait  too  long,"  said  she. 

"  I  could  not  do  otherwise,"  answered  Zaklika. 
"  The  one  who  uses  the  last  means  must  be  careful. 
The  question  was  not  one  of  my  life,  but  of  not  failing 
to  deliver  you." 

"  Yes,  you  are  right,"  said  Cosel.  "  I  must  pre- 
serve you  for  a  last  resource,  for  you  are  most  faithful. 
Young  Wehlen  may  be  used  first." 

-'What  for?"  asked  Zaklika. 

"  To  deliver  me  from  here.  He  is  madly  in  love 
with  me.  He  knows  the  castle  well.  Do  not  mix  in 
anything  ;  let  him  do  it.  Help  him  as  you  can  with- 
out taking  part  openly  ;  prefer  not  to  see  anything. 
I  will  try  to  escape  with  him." 

x 


306  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  But  he  is  a  crazy  boy,"  said  Zaklika. 

"  Only  crazy  people  succeed  in  accomplishing  crazy 
enterprises,"  said  Cosel. 

"  But  suppose  he  does  not  succeed  ?  "  asked  Zaklika 
gloomily. 

"  No  matter  ;  they  cannot  do  anything  worse  to  me. 
I  should  only  regret  having  exposed  the  young  man. 
You  will  remain  in  reserve." 

"  But  I  don't  think  he  will  have  courage  to  do  it," 
said  Zaklika. 

"  Leave  that  to  me.  I  will  manage  the.  whole 
thing." 

A  noise  on  the  stairs  stopped  further  conversation. 
Zaklika  changed  the  subject  and  then  went  out. 

He  was  hurt  at  Cosel's  rejection  of  his  help,  but 
always  submitted  to  her,  determined  to  obey  her  will. 

Wehlen  took  him  into  his  confidence  and  told  him 
he  was  ready  to  give  up  his  own  life  for  the  Countess. 

"  I  am  sure  you  would  not  betray  me,"  said  he. 

"  No,"  answered  Zaklika  ;  "you  may  be  assured  on 
that  point ;  but  do  not  betray  yourself." 

Soon  Zaklika  noticed  that  Wehlen  began  to  visit 
the  Countess  quite  often,  to  talk  with  her  while  she 
was  in  the  garden.  Zaklika  was  obliged  to  play 
draughts  with  the  uncle  and  to  chat  with  him.  Henry 
was  constantly  rushing  about,  and  by  his  redoubled 
energy  and  some  preparations  that  he  easily  noticed, 
Zaklika  guessed  that  the  flight  was  soon  to  be 
attempted.  Not  being  in  the  secret,  he  did  not  want 
to  interfere,  but  once  he  whispered  to  the  youth,— 

"  For  Heaven's  sake,  have  a  care,  captain.  I  do  not 
know  your  thoughts  and  plans,  but  I  am  afraid  that 


The  Countess  Cosel  3°7 

the    others    may    notice,    as    I    have,    some     unusual 
preparations." 

\Vehlen  was  a  little  bit  frightened  ;  he  took  hold  of 
Zaklika's  arm,  led  him  to  a  remote  corner,  and 
asked,— 

"  What  have  you  noticed,  then  ?  " 

"  Well,  I  have  noticed  that  you  are  preparing  some 
salto  nioiialc." 

"  I  do  not  understand  what  you  mean, "said  Wehlen. 
"  The  whole  thing  is  that  I  am  madly  in  love." 

"  You  must  try  not  to  show  that  love  to  others,  and 
not  let  them  see  what  I  see." 

The  same  day  Zaklika  went  to  the  tower  and  found 
Cosel  walking  about  feverishly,  wearing  a  different 
dress  than  usual. 

"  Zaklika,"  she  said,  "  do  not  interfere  with  any- 
thing— be  blind.  Play  with  the  old  commandant. 
In  case  of  alarm,  keep  him  as  long  as  possible." 

"  If  you  succeed  in  escaping,  what  shall  I  do  then  ?  " 
asked  Zaklika. 

"  Then  come  where  I  will  tell  you." 

vShe  did  not  wish  to  say  a  word  more. 

Zaklika  left  the  room  with  a  sad  presentiment. 
Wehlen,  whom  he  met  in  the  courtyard,  was  feverish, 
looking  every  moment  at  the  setting  sun. 

The  old  commandant  called  Zaklika  to  have  a 
glass  of  beer  and  play  the  usual  game  of  draughts. 
The  sergeant  who  locked  the  doors  and  brought  the 
key  usually  found  them  absorbed  in  the  game,  which 
lasted  late  into  the  night. 

The  evening  was  beautiful.  Zaklika  played  absent- 
mindedly,  listening  to  the  smallest  noise  in  the  castle, 


308  The  Countess  Cose! 

and  the  commandant,  winning  each  time,  laughed  at 
him. 

"  What  is  the  matter  with  you  to-day  ?  "  he  asked. 

"  I  have  a  headache." 

Having  played  a  few  games,  they  began  to  chat. 
Wehlen  filled  his  pipe.  The  night  was  growing  dark  ; 
they  lighted  candles.  Henry  was  absent,  and  this  was 
unusual. 

"  I  am  sure  he  went  to  town,"  said  the  com- 
mandant. "  He  is  weary  here,  and  I  prefer  him  to 
go  out  rather  than  sigh  at  that  proud  lady,  who 
imagines  she  is  a  queen  and  does  not  deign  to  look 
at  anybody." 

Zaklika  did  not  answer.     •• 

Everything  was  quiet  in  the  castle,  and  the  time  at 
which  the  old  corporal  used  to  bring  the  keys  was 
near ;  there  was  a  knock  at  the  door. 

The  old  soldier,  looking  like  a  highway  robber — a 
mercenary  who  had  seen  military  service  in  every 
country,  entered.  He  was  pale,  and  his  face  was 
strangely  twisted.  The  expression  of  it  struck 
Zaklika  ;  he  was  horrified. 

The  commandant  did  not  like  him.  His  name  was 
Wurm. 

"  I  have  to  make  a  serious  report,"  said  Wurm. 

"  WThat  is  going  on  ?  "  cried  the  commandant,  rush- 
ing from  his  chair. 

"  At  this  moment  your  nephew  is  running  away 
with  the  Countess  Cosel !  " 

The  commandant  rushed  to  the  door  like  a  mad- 
man. 

"  It  is  no  use  to  hasten,"  laughed  Wurm  savagely. 


The  Countess  Cosel  3°9 

"  I  knew  it  would  come  to  that,  and  I  watched  them  ; 
I  am  sure  of  a  good  reward." 

"  It  is  an  impudent  lie ! "  cried  the  commandant. 

"  I  have  done  my  duty,"  said  Wurm  coolly.  "  At 
this  moment  the  soldiers  are  keeping  them  in  the 
passage  behind  the  chapel,  and  Captain  Henry,  who 
is  so  fond  of  giving  me  slaps  on  the  face,  will  be 
shot." 

The  corporal  smiled  with  hellish  delight.  The  com- 
mandant trembled,  and  knew  not  what  to  do.  The 
fear  of  his  beloved  nephew  made  him  almost  crazy. 

"  Captain  von  Zaklika,"  cried  he,  "  help  me  !  save 
him  !  " 

"It  cannot  be  done,"  said  the  corporal.  "To- 
morrow the  King  and  the  whole  Court  will  know  about 
it.  Too  many  people  have  seen  it.  I  have  fixed 
everything  right.  I  have  avenged  myself,  and  if  you 
like  to  be  avenged  on  me,  I  am  ready  for  anything." 

At  that  moment  there  was  a  noise  in  the  direction 
of  the  tower.  The  soldiers  were  conducting  the 
prisoneis.  The  Countess  was  pale,  and  Henry  was 
staggering,  for  he  had  wounded  himself  with  a  pistol, 
and  he  would  surely  have  killed  himself  had  they  not 
bound  his  hands. 

Cosel  was  behaving  like  a  mad  woman  ;  Henry  stood 
quietly.  The  old  commandant  came  to  him  wringing 
his  hands.  Zaklika  was  behind  them  ;  he  pitied  the 
poor  boy  who  had  fallen  into  the  snare.  Nobody  looked 
at  Wurm,  who  smiled  triumphantly  and  cynically. 

The  uncle  was  obliged  to  put  his  nephew  into 
prison  and  send  a  report  to  Dresden.  He  was  unable 
to  write  it  himself;  the  old  soldier  cried  like  a  child, 


310  The  Countess  Cosel 

He  called  the  secretary,  and,  sobbing  and  cursing,  he 
accused  his  nephew,  begging  for  mercy  and  giving  as 
a  reason  his  youth,  and  putting  his  own  services  in  the 
balance.  He  did  not  spare  his  own  blindness ;  but 
finally  he  accused  the  corporal,  who,  instead  of  pre- 
venting the  misfortune,  dishonestly  waited  for  it  in 
order  to  profit  by  it. 

The  sentries  were  doubled,  and  they  passed  the 
night  in  uneasiness. 

The  commandant  put  the  corporal  under  arrest  also. 
The  report  was  sent  by  courier  to  Dresden.  The 
rising  sun  shone  on  Stolpen  Castle,  which  seemed 
gloomier  than  ever.  Cosel  was  in  convulsions.  About 
noon  General  von  Bodt  and  several  officials  came  from 
Dresden.  At  first  old  Wehlen  handed  his  sword 
without  a  word,  but  the  General  returned  it  to  him  ; 
by  the  King's  order  only  Captain  Henry  Wehlen  and 
Corporal  Wurm  were  to  be  court-martialled. 

Before  the  sun  set  the  sentence  of  death  had  been 
carried  out.  The  old  commandant's  tears  and  prayers 
were  in  vain.  Cosel  heard  the  firing,  and  she  shivered  ; 
she  guessed  that  the  man  who  loved  her  was  at  that 
moment  paying  for  his  love.  Zaklika  stood  pale,  like 
a  corpse. 

The  same  day  Commandant  von  Wehlen  left  the 
service,  after  having  written  a  bitter  letter  to  the  King. 
Corporal  Wurm  had  been  put  in  chains  and  sent  to 
the  Konigstein  fortress. 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

SUCH  was  Cosel's  first  attempt  to  recover  her  freedom. 
She  cried  over  the  poor  young  enthusiast  who  had 
given  his  life  for  her,  but  she  wept  also  over  her  own 
lot.  She  told  the  servant  to  take  all  the  flowers  from 
the  garden  to  Henry's  grave.  After  that  event, 
everything  was  changed  in  Stolpen.  The  command 
was  given  to  Bierling,  who  was  still  more  strict, 
but  less  intelligent ;  he  was  passionate,  impetuous, 
arbitrary,  and  proud,  possessing  all  the  faults  of  old 
soldiers,  and  had  been  more  successful  than  he  de- 
served. He  forbade  the  Countess  to  leave  the  tower; 
the  guards  were  changed,  and  Zaklika  was  ordered  to 
return  to  his  regiment. 

Taking  advantage  of  the  fact  that  the  commandant 
was  drunk  every  evening,  Zaklika  went  to  take  leave 
of  Cosel.  He  found  her  crying  ;  she  could  hardly 
speak. 

"  Then  you  also  abandon  me  !  Are  you  afraid  ?  " 
cried  she,  bitterly. 

"  They  have  ordered  me  to  return  to  my  regiment, 
and  I  must  go  in  order  to  serve  you  better." 

"  And  I — have  I  to  weep  here  for  ever  ?  "  said 
Cosel.  "  Have  I  to  die  here  ?  " 

"  I  will  do  anything  you  order,"  said  Zaklika. 


312  The  Countess  Cosel 

After  a  moment  of  reflection,  she  said,— 

"  Go,  and  think  what  can  be  done  ;  you  will  know 
best.  I  have  lost  my  common  sense.  God  and  man 
have  abandoned  me.  But,  remember,  if  you  too 
betray  me,  I  shall  curse  you  !  " 

Then  she  told  him  that  in  Pillnitz  she  had  buried 
a  box  of  diamonds  under  a  certain  tree.  Zaklika  was 
to  dig  it  up,  sell  the  stones,  and  use  the  money  in 
preparing  for  flight.  The  approach  of  a  servant  in- 
terrupted their  conversation. 

For  several  years  following,  the  faithful  servant 
could  do  nothing  else  but  let  her  hear  from  him 
through  the  pecl'ar.  They  would  not  have  been  any 
more  strict  with  her,  but  for  another  attempt  to  fly 
similar  to  the  first,  and  which  ended  as  unfortunately 
as  the  preceding  one. 

This  time  the  Countess  was  sure  of  success.  She 
ordered  Zaklika,  when  he  had  found  some  pretext  to 
visit  her,  to  wait  for  her  at  a  certain  place  on  the 
frontier,  and  so  have  horses  and  money  in  readiness. 
The  certain  amount  of  freedom  they  granted  her,  she 
used  in  gaining  over  Lieutenant  Helm,  who,  like 
Wehlen,  fell  madly  in  love  with  her. 

This  love  was  still  more  poetic,  more  passionate 
than  the  first  one.  It  lasted  two  years,  till  the 
Countess,  having  tested  the  man,  having  learned  of 
his  plan,  consented  to  try. 

Lieutenant  Helm  wras  captivated  not  only  by 
Cosel's  beauty,  but  also  by  her  intellect,  eloquence, 
and  poetry ;  for  by  this  time  the  constant  reading  of 
her  Bible  had  made  of  her  an  inspired  divine.  Her 
speech,  dress,  movement,  and  looks,  marked  an  un* 


The  Countess  Cosel  313 

usual  state  of  mind,  which  was  accompanied  by  such 
assurance,  such  a  deep  faith  and  unshaken  dignity— 
that  her  attractiveness  was  increased   not  only   in   the 
eyes  of  this  one  man,  but  of  all  with  whom  she  came 
in  contact. 

Zaklika  was  surprised  at  such  a  great  change.  She 
was  beautiful,  as  before  ;  but  the  expression  of  her 
face  was  more  severe  ;  misfortune  had  impressed  its 
mark  upon  it,  but  had  not  lessened  its  charm.  Her 
liveliness  of  movement  was  replaced  by  dignity  ;  her 
words  were  uttered  with  an  impressiveness  that  made 
them  seem  inspired  by  some  mysterious  source.  She 
seemed  to  be  some  priestess — some  sibyl.  Zaklika 
found  her  reading  the  Bible  with  a  pencil  in  her 
hand.  She  looked  at  him  and  extended  her  hand. 
The  man's  eyes  moistened. 

11  Do  you  see?"  said  she.  "  I  am  still  alive.  God 
has  permitted  me  to  live,  and  He  has  not  done  so  in 
vain.  I  know  that  I  shall  outlive  my  persecutors  and 
forgive  them.  God  granted  me  life  to  open  my  eyes 
to  great  truths.  I  must  be  free,  for  I  have  great 
things  to  accomplish." 

"Are  you  not  afraid,"  said  Zaklika,  "  that — " 

"  I  was  never  afraid  of  anything,"  interrupted 
Cosel.  "  That  young  man  will  do  what  I  tell  him, 
and  now  I  possess  the  secret  of  seeing  clearly  ways 
and  means.  He  will  not  betray  me,  neither  will 
Fate !  " 

They  agreed  about  the  place  and  the  day.  He  did 
not  ask  any  questions  about  the  plan,  but  he  had  fears 
for  the  lady  ;  he  had  a  presentiment  that  it  would 
make  her  lot  worse, 


The  Countess  Cosel 

She  dismissed  him  with  a  nod  like  a  queen. 
Lieutenant  Helm,  whom  he  had  seen  only  for  a 
moment,  seemed  to  him  to  be  as  enthusiastic  as  was 
the  unfortunate  Henry  von  Wehlen. 

Zaklika,  obedient  to  Cosel's  order,  obtained  leave 
of  absence,  for  he  was  still  in  the  military  service, 
which  gave  him  a  certain  safety,  and  he  went  with  his 
friend  the  Wend  to  wait  on  the  frontier. 

Cosel  was  coming  there  the  same  night.  Zaklika 
waited  with  unspeakable  uneasiness.  The  night 
passed  in  undisturbed  quietude  ;  then  came  day,  and 
he  waited  in  vain.  The  two  following  days  and  nights 
passed  in  the  same  manner :  nobody  came,  there  was 
no  news.  On  the  fourth  day  a  merchant  coming 
from  Stolpen  told  in  the  inn  how  the  Countess,  im- 
prisoned in  the  castle,  after  having  escaped  with  an 
officer  who  helped  her  to  fly,  was  captured. 

That  was  all  he  could  learn.  He  returned  to 
Dresden  in  order  to  learn  more,  and  so  act  according 
to  the  news  he  received. 

The  merchant's  narrative  was  true.  Zaklika  went 
to  Stolpen.  He  had  no  need  to  go  to  the  castle :  in 
the  town  nothing  else  was  talked  of.  Helm  had  been 
working  the  whole  year  in  digging  a  narrow  passage 
under  the  walls,  leading  behind  the  fortress  in  the 
direction  in  which  there  were  no  sentries.  The  open- 
ing was  adroitly  hidden  with  stones.  Drunken 
sentries  and  the  absence  of  the  commandant  seemed 
to  promise  success.  During  the  night  the  Countess, 
dressed  in  man's  clothes,  succeeded  in  leaving  the 
tower  unperceived.  Helm  was  waiting  for  her  in 
the  third  courtyard,  from  which  they  could  escape  to 


The  Countess  Cosel  3J5 

the  outside  by  the  passage  he  had  made.  He  quietly 
removed  the  stones.  The  Countess  passed  first  ; 
Helm  followed  her.  Notwithstanding  the  darkness, 
they  succeeded  in  slipping  down  the  basalt  rocks  to 
the  foot  of  the  mount.  Not  far  off  horses  were  wait- 
ing for  them  ;  but  before  they  reached  them  the 
alarm  was  given  in  the  castle. 

A  servant  who  entered  Cosel's  chamber  to  see 
whether  the  lady  was  quieter  than  she  had  been  in 
the  day,  during  which  she  was  feverish,  noticing  that 
the  window  was  open  and  the  bed  empty,  began  to 
scream,  thinking  that  the  Countess,  in  a  fit  of  mad- 
ness, had  jumped  on  to  the  rocks.  Everybody  sprang 
to  their  feet. 

While  searching  in  the  castle,  they  noticed  the 
opening  under  the  walls,  and  they  set  out  in  pursuit. 
The  man  who  was  waiting  with  the  horses,  hearing 

o  o 

the  alarm,  returned  with  them  to  the  town. 

Cosel  and  Helm  began  to  run  across  the  fields  to 
the  bush,  thinking  to  hide  there  ;  but  the  commandant, 
knowing  that  his  life  would  be  in  danger  if  he  failed  to 
capture  the  fugitives,  gathered  as  many  people  as  he 
could  in  the  town,  ordered  torches  to  be  lit,  sent  men 
on  horseback  in  all  directions,  and  before  dawn  they 
were  discovered.  The  Countess  and  Helm  had 
pistols,  and  they  wounded  a  soldier  in  self-defence, 
but  the  shot  attracted  the  attention  of  others,  and  they 
were  speedily  captured. 

The  officer  was  court-martialled  like  von  Wehlen. 
They  took  him  to  Dresden,  where  he  was  to  be  shot 
on  the  New  Market  square.  His  relations  were  very 
influential,  and  they  did  everything  to  save  his  life, 


316  The  Countess  Cosel 

About  noon  a  detachment  of  soldiers  conducted  Helm 
to  the  place  of  execution.  A  large  crowd  gathered  to 
look  at  the  beautiful,  golden-haired  youth,  who  did 
not  lose  his  courage  in  the  hour  of  death. 

He  was  placed  against  the  wall,  the  soldiers  aimed 
their  rifles,  the  officer  was  ready  to  give  the  order  to 
fire,  when  the  King's  aide-de-camp  galloped  up  with  a 
pardon. 

Helm  was  led  back  to  the  barracks ;  but  no  one 
knew  what  was  to  be  done  with  him.  The  crowd 
scattered. 

At  Stolpen  Castle,  except  for  new  precautions  and 
a  change  of  commandant,  nothing  was  altered.  They 
did  not  touch  Cosel,  who  enjoyed  even  the  little 
liberty  she  was  allowed  before. 

Cosel  was  mourning  in  her  heart  the  death  of 
another  victim  of  her  love,  for  the  news  of  his  pardon 
was  slow  in  reaching  her. 

Zaklika  returned  to  his  quarters,  and  began  pre- 
parations for  that  which  he  thought  was  his  duty. 
But  being  more  experienced  than  those  who  preceded 
him,  he  wanted  to  be  certain  that  the  last  attempt  to 
fly  was  certain  of  success.  He  was  not  discouraged 
at  all  because  Wehlen  had  lost  his  life  and  Helm 
broken  his  career.  The  only  question  was,  would  it 
be  better  to  quit  the  military  service  and  go  to  live  at 
Stolpen  or  not  ? 

A  few  months  passed.  During  this  time  Zaklika 
learned  that  a  friend  of  his,  Von  Kaschau  by  name,  a 
good  but  very  dissipated  fellow,  was  in  the  garrison 
of  Stolpen.  He  went  to  see  him,  and  when  the  old 
soldier  perceived  him,  he  was  overwhelmed  with  joy, 


The  Countess  Cosel  317 

He  asked  the  commandant  to  let  Zaklika  stay  at  the 
castle.  The  commandant,  being  unwell,  and  needing 
Von  Kaschau  to  do  his  duty  for  him,  consented.  The 
two  friends  went  to  Kaschau's  rooms,  drank  beer  and 
chatted,  naturally  about  the  prisoner. 

"  I  do  not  like  to  judge  others,"  said  the  old 
soldier,  "  especially  His  Majesty,  our  King,  but  I  do 
not  see  any  reason  for  his  severity  to  that  woman  ! 
What  could  she  do  ?  The  most  would  be  that  some 
one  would  fall  in  love  with  her,  like  Helm,  for  she  is 
still  beautiful.  Nothing  has  injured  her  charms— 
neither  prison,  nor  grief,  nor  tears." 

''  Had  you  seen  her  in  her  full  splendour,  as  I  did 
when  I  was  at  the  Court,"  said  Zaklika,  "  then  you 
would  know  how  dangerous  she  was.  The  King  was 
not  afraid  of  her  pistol,  but  of  her  eyes  and  the  influence 
she  had  over  him  ;  for  if  she  could  speak  for  an  hour 
with  him,  he  would  lie  at  her  feet  and  pray  for 
pardon." 

Kaschau  laughed. 

"  Yes,  but  then  he  would  lie  at  the  feet  of  Fraulein 
Dieskau  or  Osterhausen — the  old  wheedler  !  " 

"  I  would  like  to  see  her,"  said  Zaklika,  "  for  it 
would  be  interesting  to  see  such  a  woman  again." 

"  No  one  stops  you  from  doing  so,"  said  Kaschau. 
"  During  the  day  you  cannot  steal  her  away  ;  you  may 
go  there  and  bow  to  the  former  goddess." 

Zaklika  went  to  the  tower  and  knocked  at  Cosel's 
door.  As  there  was  no  answer,  he  entered,  and  beheld 
Cosel  standing  thoughtfully  over  an  open  Bible  which 
was  lying  on  the  book-covered  table.  She  was  robed 
in  such  an  odd  dress  that  he  feared  she  had  lost  her 


The  Countess  Cosel 

reason.  She  wore  a  full  black  robe  with  long  sleeves 
and  a  girdle  with  cabalistic  signs  on  it.  On  her  head 
was  a  reel  handkerchief,  arranged  in  Oriental  fashion, 
with  a  roll  of  parchment  on  which  some  Hebrew 
sentences  were  written. 

She  was  beautiful  indeed,  but  quite  different  from 
that  Cosel  who  received  the  Danish  King  in  a  robe 
covered  with  diamonds. 

She  did  not  take  her  eyes  from  the  book,  but 
remained  thinking. 

After  a  while  she  looked  up  at  him,  and  said  in 
surprise, — 

"  Are  you  a  spirit  or  a  living  being  ?  " 

<l  I  am  your  faithful  servant;  I  have  come  to  ask 
your  orders,"  said  Zaklika. 

"  Then  there  are  faithful  servants;  and  I,  a  prisoner, 
can  still  give  orders  ?  To  whom  ? " 

"To  me,"  answered  Zaklika,  "as  long  as  I  live." 

"  How  did  you  come  here  ? " 

Zaklika  pointed  to  his  uniform. 

"  Now  is  my  turn,"  said  he.  "  I  will  try  to  be 
more  intelligent,  and  perhaps  I  shall  be  more 
lucky." 

Cosel  smiled  bitterly. 

"  Everything  is  written  above,  predestinated,  un- 
changeable— no  one  can  escape  his  fate." 

"And  why  should  it  not  be  my  fate  to  give  you 
liberty  ? " 

She  shook  her  head. 

"  For  this  reason,  that  I  shall  be  free  in  another 
way,"  said  she.  "  Formerly  I  was  blind,  but  now  I 
see  my  destiny  in  this  book.  There  is  no  favour  in 


The  Countess  Cosel  319 

this  world  ;  there  is  only  iron,  unbreakable,  unavoidable 
necessity.  One  must  submit  to  it.  In  the  Old  Testa- 
ment alone  is  wisdom." 

Zaklika  did  not  know  what  to  say  to  that. 

"  Do  you  remain  here  ?"  asked  Cosel. 

"  I  do  not  know  yet.  Tell  me  what  I  have  to  do; 
I  am  ready  for  anything." 

Cosel  turned  over  several  pages,  and  began  to 
read  : 

"  '  And  he  said  again,  Be  not  afraid ;  strengthen 
yourself  and  be  wise,  for  thus  will  the  Lord  do  unto 
all  them  against  whom  ye  fight.' " 

Then  she  said, — 

"You  must  await  God's  voice." 

"  But  am  I  to  quit  the  military  service  or  not  ? " 
asked  Zaklika. 

"  Throw  down  that  horrid  livery — that  coat  of  slavery 
of  the  Amalekites,"  said  Cosel  with  animation. 

"It  will  take  some  time  to  sell  the  commission 
before  I  could  come  to  Stolpen." 

"  Go,  then,  and  return,"  said  she.  "  You  are  the 
only  man  who  serves  me  faithfully." 

Zaklika  left  her.  In  the  courtyard  he  met 
Kaschau. 

"What  have  you  been  talking  about  with  her?" 
asked  he. 

"  I  could  not  talk  at  all,"  answered  Zaklika.  "  She 
was  reading  the  Bible.  I  did  not  want  to  interrupt 
her.  I  must  come  again." 

"  I  doubt  you  will  have  a  better  chance.  Now  the 
Countess  seeks  distraction  in  holy  books.  It  is 
better." 


120 


The  Countess  Cosel 


They  spent  the  day  in  walking  on  the  ramparts  and 
chatting  till  the  moment  of  locking  the  gates.  Then 
he  took  leave  of  his  friend  and  returned  to  his  quarters 
in  Ochatz,  where  he  sold  his  commission,  gathered  as 
much  money  as  he  could,  and  came  to  Stolpen,  where 
he  purchased  a  little  house  in  which  he  settled. 


ffr 


standin  aficent,    tin 

;>ut  not  bei:  '•". 

The  Count' 

would  ! 

en]  and  L|! 

short   amours.  <mld  fetter  him  lor  a 

,     time      The  latuesque    Sophie 

•lie  King  found 

laughter  of 

The  King-  seemed  to  become  you;  liful 

•er's  side,  who,  clad   in  a   uni.  red 

wjt  i    him    to    mi 

mar 

actions,  and 


y 

Ttiv  Countess  t»r/elska 


\T<r 


CHAPTER   XXVII. 

MANY  changes  took  place  at  the  Court  in  Dresden. 
Cosel  was  avenged  without  putting  her  hand  to  it. 
Her  foes  disappeared  one  after  another. 

Amid  the  ruins  King  Augustus  the  Strong  was  always 
standing  magnificent,  throwing  away  gold,  seeking 
pleasures,  but  not  being  able  to  find  them. 

The  Countess  Marie  Denhoff,  being  afraid  that  she 
might  meet  the  fate  of  Cosel,  thought  it  would  be  wise 
to  marry,  and  the  King  did  not  oppose  it.  The  King 
enjoyed  himself  the  best  in  Leipzig  fairs,  and  preferred 
short  amours  to  those  which  would  fetter  him  for  a 
long  time.  The  beautiful  and  statuesque  Sophie 
Dieskau  claimed  him  for  a  while  ;  but  the  King  found 
her  cold  as  an  icicle,  and  he  married  her  to  Herr  von 
Loss.  After  that  he  was  in  love  for  a  while  with 
Henriette  Osterhausen.  These  temporary  love  in- 
trigues were  followed  by  the  reign  of  Anna  Orzelska, 
the  daughter  of  Henriette  Duval. 

The  King  seemed  to  become  younger  at  his  beautiful 
daughter's  side,  who,  clad  in  a  uniform  embroidered 
with  gold,  accompanied  him  to  military  reviews, 
manoeuvres,  and  hunting. 

The  King  was  always  eager  for  distractions,  and 

Y 


322  The  Countess  Cosel 

the  arrival  of  Anna  Orzelska  furnished  him  with 
an  opportunity  for  the  display  of  still  greater 
splendour. 

Amid  different  pleasures  furnished  by  the  King's 
fancy,  there  were  moments  when  Augustus  thought 
that  he  was  a  military  genius,  and  wanted  military 
parades. 

In  1727  the  King  was  spending  the  spring  in  Pilinitz, 
where  the  troops  \vere  camping.  They  tried  new 
cannons  which  were  able  to  break  the  rock  on  which 
Konigstein  was  built. 

"  I  know  some  rocks,"  said  Count  Wackerbarth  to 
the  King,  "  which  would  resist  those  cannons." 

"  Where  ?  "  asked  Augustus. 

Wackerbarth  looked  at  the  King,  and  it  seemed  as 
if  he  were  sorry  for  what  he  had  said. 

"  Where  ?  "  repeated  the  King. 

"  At  Stolpen  ;  the  basalt  rocks  would  resist." 

"In  Stolpen ! "  exclaimed  Augustus,  and  he  was 
gloomy. 

There  was  a  moment  of  silence.  The  King  walked 
to  and  fro  impatiently  ;  it  was  evident  that  he  was 
tormented  by  some  fancy  which  he  did  not  want  to 
satisfy. 

"In  Stolpen!"  repeated  he.  "One  could  try  the 
cannon  on  those  rocks." 

The  general  looked  timidly  at  the  King,  who,  as  if 
he  were  pricked  by  that  look,  exclaimed,— 

"Why  should  we  not  try  the  balls  on  the  basalt 
rocks  ?  We  cannot  destroy  the  castle,  and  a  few 
shots — " 

Wackerbarth  was  silent,  and  waited  for  orders,  still 


The  Countess  Cosel  323 

not  believing  that  Augustus  wanted  to  show  that  he 
was  superior  to  the  childish  consideration. 

"  Send  two  cannons  to  Stolpen,"  said  he,  "  and  give 
orders  for  them  to  be  trained  on  the  rock.  To-morrow 
I  will  see  the  trial  personally.  Yes,  to-morrow  morn' 
ng  very  early,  for  it  is  warm  already  towards  noon," 

He  turned  and  went  off. 

Orders  of  the  King  were  always  executed,  notwith- 
standing all  difficulties.  The  cannons  were  sent  to 
Stolpen  during  the  night.  Zaklika  was  sleeping  in  his 
solitary  house,  when,  about  midnight,  he  was  awakened 
by  a  great  noise  and  shouting  of  impertinent  soldiers,. 
He  thought  that  Saxony  was  being  invaded  by  the 
Prussians,  but  soon  he  recognized  the  Saxons  by  the 
exclamation,  "  Herr  Jesus  I  "  repeated  continually. 
Then  he  went  out  and  asked  the  officer  what  had 
happened — why  such  haste. 

"The  King,"  shouted  the  officer,  "  will  be  here  this 
morning." 

"The  King!     In  Stolpen?" 

"  Yes,  yes  ;  he  will  try  cannons  against  the  basalt 
rocks." 

"  Where  ?  "  cried  Zaklika,  amazed. 

''  Here,  at  the  rocks  on  which  the  castle  stands," 
said  the  officer. 

The  conversation  was  interrupted.  Zaklika  could 
not  believe  his  own  ears.  The  King  was  going  to  fire 
at  the  castle  in  which  he  had  imprisoned  that  unfor- 
tunate woman!  The  King  in  Stolpen!  His  hair 
stood  on  end  to  think  what  suffering  it  would  cause 
the  Countess.  He  wanted  to  rush  and  tell  her,  to 
give  her  courage  to  bear  such  a  trial  bravely, 


324  The  Countess  Cosel 

"  It  cannot  be  ! ;>  repeated  he  to  himself.  "  At  the 
last  moment  the  Kino-  will  be  ashamed,  and  will  not 

<_> 

come  !     It  could  not  be!  " 

The  dawn  was  breaking  when  Zaklika  left  his  house 
and  rushed  to  the  castle,  where  everybody  was  awake. 
The  news  that  the  King  was  coming  electrified  the 
soldiers  and  officers.  In  the  town  and  villages 
soldiers  were  urging  the  population  to  make  the 
emplacements.  Crying,  shouting,  and  loud  commands 
were  heard  all  around. 

One  of  the  batteries  they  had  already  begun  to 
build  in  the  park  near  Rohrpforte,  the  other  at 
Hanewald. 

When  Zaklika  arrived  at  the  castle  he  found  the 
gates  already  open.  They  were  sweeping  and  clean- 
ing ;  the  commandant  was  hoarse  with  shouting  ;  the 
officers  did  not  know  what  to  do.  Round  the  St. 
John's  Tower  the  Countess's  servants  stood  half  dressed, 
for  they  thought  it  was  an  alarm  of  fire.  They  asked 
each  other  questions  as  to  what  they  should  do.  At 
the  open  window  was  Cosel.  She  was  pale  and 
trembling.  Zaklika  rushed  up  the  stairs. 

She  met  him  at  the  door  with  the  exclamation, — 

"  The  King  is  coming  to  me !  " 

"  Not  to  you,"  interrupted  Zaklika,  "  he  comes  to 
try  his  cannon  balls  on  the  rocks." 

Cosel  laughed. 

"  You  are  a  simpleton !  "  cried  she.  "  I  have 
dreamed  of  him  for  a  week.  My  spirit  hovered  over 
him  and  attracted  him.  He  was  searching  for  a  pre- 
text ;  he  wishes  to  see  me.  He  knows  that  I  love  him, 
that  I  shall  forgive  him.  He  is  free  ;  he  wishes  to 


The  Countess  Cosel  325 

marry  me  as  he  promised.  I  wish  to  be  beautiful !  I 
want  to  remind  him  of  that  Anna  before  whom  he  used 
to  kneel.  The  King  !  "  exclaimed  she  in  ecstasy,  "  my 
king  !  my  lord  ! '' 

"  Call  the  servants,"  added  she.  "  Tell  them  to  take 
out  my  dresses  !  " 

Zaklika  rushed  out  and  called  the  servants,  then  sat 
on  the  stairs,  silent,  full  of  grief,  half-dead,  unable  to 
move. 

The  day  was  bright.  They  counted  minutes  and 
seconds.  Merciless  soldiers  slashed  at  the  peasants, 
urging  them  to  work  ;  the  batteries  were  rising  before 
their  eyes.  It  was  a  most  charming  May  morning. 
The  scented  trees  were  sprinkled  with  dew  ;  all  nature, 
like  a  baby  in  the  cradle,  was  awake  smiling.  Amid 
the  quietude  of  nature,  everything  in  the  castle  was 
noisy,  moving,  seething  like  a  bee  hive. 

The  soldiers  dressed  in  their  best  uniforms  ;  the 
officers  in  new  armour.  The  commandant  learned,  to 
his  great  despair,  that  the  King's  provisions  were  not 
coming  to  Pillnitz,  and  it  was  necessary  to  receive  the 
lord.  What  could  they  find  worthy  of  His  Majesty's 
palate  ?  They  killed  a  couple  of  deer  in  the  park,  they 
found  a  few  bottles  of  wine  ;  but  how  could  the  sim- 
plicity of  the  camp  table  agree  with  the  King's  accus- 
tomed luxury  !  In  fact  they  had  only  one  decent  glass 
with  the  arms  of  Saxony  worthy  of  lordly  lips,  but  the 
plates  and  the  other  things  were  very  poor.  The 
priest  lent  a  table  cloth  from  the  church  ;  the  inn- 
keeper furnished  a  great  many  things. 

The  cannons  were  placed  in  the  batteries.  It  was 
already  four  o'clock — at  any  moment  they  might 


326  The  Countess  Cosel 

expect  the  King,  who  said  he  would  leave  Pillnitz  at 
daybreak.  The  commandant  put  a  soldier  on  the 
tower,  to  let  him  know  when  he  should  perceive  dust 
on  the  road.  The  artillerymen  aimed  the  cannons  so 
as  to  be  sure  the  balls  would  strike  the  rock. 

Everything  was  ready  when  the  soldier  on  the  tower 
gave  the  signal.  At  that  moment  the  mayor  of  the 
town,  with  the  councillors  carrying  a  rusty  key  on  a 
tray,  went  out  on  the  road.  In  the  church,  ringers 
were  ready  to  receive  the  lord  with  a  peal  of  bells. 
The  inhabitants  of  the  town  were  dressed,  in  their  best 
clothes,  and  crowded  the  streets  and  market  square. 

The  clouds  of  dust  approached  swiftly,  and  at  last 
they  perceived,  galloping  at  the  head  on  a  magnificent 
steed,  a  good-looking,  majestic  man.  He  was  followed 
by  aides-de-camp  and  a  small  retinue  of  courtiers  and 
guests. 

At  the  gate  the  King  hardly  nodded  ;  the  mayor 
and  his  councillors  bent  to  the  ground  ;  he  went  im- 
mediately in  the  direction  of  the  castle.  Here  the 
garrison  was  drawn  up  at  the  gate  ;  the  drum  was 
beaten  and  the  commandant  came  out  with  a  report. 
But  the  King  seemed  uneasy  and  in  bad  humour.  He 
did  not  say  a  word  to  anybody.  He  turned  his  horse 
to  the  battery  at  Rohrpforts,  looked  for  a  while,  and 
then  hurried  to  Hannewalde.  In  front  of  that  battery 
there  rose  a  black  mass  of  basalt  rock.  From  here  the 
St.  John's  tower  and  its  windows,  in  one  of  which  was 
a  white  figure,  could  be  clearly  distinguished.  But 
the  King  did  not  raise  his  eyes. 

At  that  moment  General  Wackerbarth  arrived  from 
Dresden, and  stood  behind  the  King  in  silence.  Augustus 


The  Countess  Cosel  327 

was  in  a  hurry  :  he  nodded.  The  artillerymen  put  a 
light  to  the  touch-hole  of  the  cannon,  and  there  was  a 
loud  report  which  was  echoed  in  the  surrounding 
mountains.  A  sharp  ear  could  catch  at  the  same 
moment  a  dreadful  cry  of  despair  and  grief.  The 
King,  however,  could  neither  see  nor  hear  anything, 
his  attention  being  absorbed  by  the  cannon  and  the 
result  of  the  firing. 

The  first  shot  directed  at  the  wall  built  of  basalt, 
made  a  hole  in  it,  but  the  iron  ball  was  broken  into 
pieces.  The  commandant  brought  some  pieces  to  the 
King,  who  deigned  to  look  at  them,  and  shrugged  his 
shoulders.  The  other  shot  was  directed  at  the  rock 
itself;  the  ball  was  broken  into  pieces,  but  the  rock 
withstood  the  blow. 

The  King,  growing  feverish,  ordered  a  third  and 
fourth  shot  to  be  fired  ;  the  result  was  the  same — the 
rock  could  not  be  broken,  except  for  a  few  splits  where 
the  ball  struck. 

From  the  first  moment  that  Cosel  heard  of  the  King's 
coming,  she  was  half-mad.  At  first  she  thought  that 
Augustus  was  coming  to  see  her  ;  she  dressed  with 
feverish  haste  and  the  greatest  care,  looked  long  in  the 
mirror  and  smiled  to  herself. 

"  I  am  sure,"  she  whispered  to  herself,  "  he  is  coming 
to  see  me.  It  is  the  end  of  my  captivity,  and  the 
beginning  of  my  triumph." 

She  rushed  from  one  window  to  another.  From  one 
of  them  she  could  see  the  road  coming  from  Pillnitz. 
She  noticed  clouds  of  dust,  and  her  heart  throbbed — 
she  cried.  Then  the  pealing  of  bells  and  the  beating 
of  drums  were  heard — the  King  was  entering  the  castle. 


The  Countess  Cosel 

Then  silence.  She  pressed  her  heart  with  her  hand, 
and  waited.  It  seemed  to  her  that  she  would  hear 
him  on  the  stairs— that  she  would  see  him  at  the  door, 
full  of  pity  and  benevolence.  The  silence  lasted  too 
long,  then  the  report  of  a  gunshot  resounded,  shot  and 
cry.  Cosel  fell  on  the  floor.  Suddenly  she  rose,  mad, 
bewildered,  and  rushed  to  the  wardrobe.  Her  hands 
trembled  ;  she  opened  the  drawer  and  took  a  pistol 
that  was  hidden  among  silk  dresses.  Then  she  went 
to  the  nearest  window,  looking  round.  From  this  side 
she  could  hear  the  noise  of  the  broken  rock  and  the 
bursting  of  the  cannon  balls  on  it.  Cosel  leaned 
out ;  her  eyes  were  aflame  ;  her  bosom  heaved.  She 
waited. 

At  each  shot  she  beat  her  head  and  pressed  her 
heart.  Wild  laughter  was  on  her  lips  and  tears  filled 
her  eyes. 

After  the  fourth  shot,  everything  became  quiet. 
Cosel  did  not  move  from  her  place,  and  held  the  pistol 
in  her  hand.  Soon  the  sound  of  the  tramp  of  horses 
resounded  on  the  road.  Cosel  leaned  out  and  looked. 

It  was  he  !  Augustus,  riding  on  a  path  near  the 
walls  ! 

She  screamed.  He  raised  his  head,  stopped  his 
horse,  and  touched  his  hat  with  his  hand  ;  he  was 
pale. 

Cosel  leaned  out  still  more,  as  though  she  would 
jump  through. 

"  Sire  !   my  lord  !   Have  pity  on  me  !  "  cried  she. 

Augustus  did  not  answer  ;  and  Cosel  laughed  bitterly. 

"  To  expect  pity  from  you,  vile  tyrant!  From  you 
who  break  your  promises  and  then  imprison  those  who 


The  Countess  Cosel 


329 


ask  you  to  fulfil  them  !  What  do  you  care  for  human 
life?  What  do  you  care  for  human  heart?  Cosel,  a 
prisoner,  despises  you  and  curses  you  :  yourself,  your 
family  and  your  country  !  Die,  you  villain  !  " 

She  aimed  and  fired  at  the  King.  The  pistol  shot 
resounded  in  the  castle  mingled  with  laughter.  The 
King,  hearing  the  whizz  of  the  ball,  came  to  his  wits  ; 
he  saluted  smiling,  and  galloped  off  in  the  direction  of 
Pillnitz.  The  commandant's  efforts  to  offer  the  King 
a  luncheon  were  wasted. 


CHAPTER   XXVIII. 

WHEN  Zaklika,  alarmed  by  the  pistol  shot,  entered 
Cosel's  room,  he  found  her  lying  on  the  floor  senseless. 
Beside  her  was  a  pistol,  still  smoking.  He  guessed 
everything.  The  servants  rushed  to  help  the  lady, 
who  seemed  to  be  dead. 

Many  people  heard  the  shot,  but  Augustus  never 
said  a  word  about  it  to  any  one.  Hence  they  came  to 
the  conclusion  that  they  must  not  speak  about  it. 

It  took  the  Countess  quite  a  long  time  before  she 
assumed  her  former  order  of  living.  Now  she  was 
pers jaded  that  she  could  not  expect  anything. 

They  did  not,  however,  forbid  visitors  to  see  her, 
and  later  on  she  was  allowed  to  go  into  the  garden. 

Zaklika  remained  in  town,  but  did  not  arouse  anv 
suspicion  as  he  kept  quiet.  Cosel  used  to  ask  him  to 
do  different  errands  for  her,  but  she  never  spoke  about 
flight. 

Only  the  next  year  she  was  irritated  by  the  news  ol 
the  gorgeous  festivities  given  in  Dresden  in  honour  ot 
Frederick  William  of  Prussia,  who  visited  Augustus 
with  his  son  Frederick,  since  called  the  Great. 

Cosel  listened  to  the  description  of  the  festivities, 
and  was  irritated  at  the  thought  that  formerly  such 
splendour  was  displayed  for  her.  It  again  aroused  in 


The  Countess  Cosel  33 J 

her  the  desire  of  escape,  and  of  revenge  upon  the 
tyrant  for  her  suffering  and  humiliation. 

Several  times  she  was  ready  to  say  to  Zaklika. 
"  Now  is  your  turn."  He  expected  it,  and  waited.  He 
was  ready  to  die  for  her  sake,  but  did  not  wish  to 
awaken  the  danger  himself. 

One  day  when  the  Jewish  pedlar  brought  to  Cosel, 
together  with  some  goods,  a  newspaper  describing 
the  last  entertainments  given  for  the  King  of  Prussia, 
and  among  the  others  the  same  carousal  that  was 
for  the  first  time  organized  for  her,  she  became 
indignant. 

Zaklika  came  in  at  that  moment.  She  was  walking 
to  and  fro  thoughtfully. 

"  Are  you  still  ready  to  risk  your  life  for  me  ?  "  she 
asked. 

"Yes  !  "  answered  Zaklika  simply. 

"  Have  you  any  means  of  freeing  me  ?  " 

"  I  will  find  some." 

"  I  pity  you  ;  you  were  the  most  faithful  to  me," 
said  she;  "but  I  must  escape  from  here,  I  must." 

Zaklika  stood  thoughtful. 

"  Do  you  need  much  time  ?  " 

"  I  cannot  calculate,"  answered  Zaklika.  "  I  must 
act  so  as  to  be  sure  of  success." 

Cosel  nodded,  and  Zaklika  went  out  into  the  park, 
he  needed  solitude  to  think  over  the  matter.  For  a 
long  time  he  had  several  plans,  but  every  one  of  them 
had  some  drawback. 

All  the  former  attempts  were  unsuccessful  because 
the  flights  were  discovered  too  soon  ;  therefore  it  was 
necessary  to  make  a  plan  which  would  not  be  dis- 


33 2  The  Countess  Cosel 

covered  before  Cosel  should  be  beyond    the    Saxon 
boundaries. 

Unhappily  Zaklika  had  nobody  who  could  help  him. 
He  could  count  on  the  faithfulness  of  his  Slav  brothers, 
Wends  and  Servs,  but  they  were  timid  and  not  artful 
at  all.  He  came  to  the  conclusion  that  it  would  be 
best  to  fly  during  day-time. 

At  the  gate  there  was  no  strict  control  over  who 
came  in  and  who  went  out ;  they  let  in  pedlars  to  the 
Countess  and  to  the  commandant ;  the  men  did  not 
attract  special  attention.  Therefore  he  came  to  the 
conclusion  that  during  some  rainy  day  Cosel  could  pass 
the  gates  covered  with  his  mantle.  He  would  follow 
her,  and  conduct  her  beyond  the  park,  where  he  would 
have  saddled  horses,  on  which  they  could  cross  the 
plains  towards  the  woods  and  mountains. 

Zaklika  was  thinking  for  several  days,  but  was  un- 
able to  find  anything  better,  and  he  at  last  decided  to 
tell  her  about  the  plan. 

She  thought  it  very  good. 

"  The  first  rainy  day,"  said  she.  "  It  is  no  use  to 
wait  ;  we  must  try  our  luck.  I  have  decided  to  defend 
myself.  I  hope  you  will  do  the  same." 

"  I  hope  it  will  not  be  necessary,"  said  Zaklika. 

For  several  days  there  was  fine  weather.  Zaklika 
was  coming  in  and  going  out  continually.  Thinking 
that  he  should  not  return  again  to  Stolpen,  he  sold  his 
house,  and  converted  everything  he  could  into  ready 
money. 

At  last  the  sky  was  covered  with  clouds,  and  it 
seemed  to  promise  rain  for  several  days.  Zaklika, 
covered  with  his  long  mantle,  was  continually  coming 


The  Countess  Cosel  333 

in  and  going  out  of  the  castle,  not  answering  the 
questions  made  to  him  by  the  sentries,  as  if  telling 
them  that  he  did  not  like  to  talk  much.  The  trials 
were  very  successful.  One  Friday  it  rained  hard  from 
the  early  morning.  When  dusk  began  to  fall  every- 
thing was  ready.  Cosel  gave  the  servant  leave  to  go 
to  the  town. 

Covered  with  a  long,  military  mantle,  with  a  cap 
pushed  over  her  eyes,  Cosel  went  first  to  the  St.  Donat's 
gate,  and  no  one  paid  any  attention  to  her ;  at  the 
second  gate  the  soldiers  looked  at  her,  but  let  her  pass. 

A  few  minutes  later  Zaklika,  dressed  in  the  same 
manner,  passed  the  first  gate  quickly,  in  which  he  did 
not  meet  anybody.  At  the  second  gate  the  soldier 
muttered,— 

"  How  many  of  you  are  there  ?  " 

Zaklika  uncovered  his  face. 

"  Devil  knows  you,"  said  the  soldier.  "  I  know  only 
that  there  came  in  one,  and  two  go  out." 

"  What  are  you  talking  about  ?  " 

"  I  am  not  blind." 

Zaklika  paid  •  no  attention  and  moved  on.  The 
soldier  stopped  him. 

"  But  they  all  know  me  here,"  said  Zaklika. 

"  Go  to  the  commandant  and  explain  to  him,  other- 
wise I  shall  not  let  you  out." 

They  began  to  quarrel.  The  corporal  came.  Zaklika 
complained  to  him,  and  they  let  him  out,  and  he  dis- 
appeared in  the  bushes  beyond  the  park  ;  but  the  soldier 
orrumbled. 

t> 

"  Why  are  you  angry  with  him  ?  "  asked  the  corporal. 
"  When  I  am  at  the  gate,  I   must  count  how  many 


334  The  Countess  Cosel 

people  I  let  in,  and  how  many  out.  There  entered  one 
clad  in  a  long  mantle,  and  two  of  them  went  out.  The 
first  looked  as  if  he  never  was  a  soldier.  Suppose  it 
was  the  Countess  ?  "  added  he,  laughing. 

"  You  talk  nonsense  !  "  said  the  corporal,  with  un- 
easiness. He  stepped,  thought  for  a  while,  and  went 
to  the  St.  John's  tower.  Here  he  learned  that  all  the 
servants  had  been  permitted  to  go  to  town. 

He  rushed  up  the  first  flight — the  room  was  dark 
and  empty  ;  on  the  floor  above —  nobody  either.  The 
corporal  hastened  to  the  commandant,  who  rushed 
out  and  began  to  search  with  the  soldiers  in  the  castle. 
Time  was  passing  by  ;  dusk  was  already  quite  thick. 
There  was  no  doubt  that  Cosel  had  escaped  !  They 
struck  the  alarm,  and  the  commandant,  dividing  his 
soldiers  into  several  groups,  rushed  out  to  chase  the 
fugitive  lady. 

In  the  meantime  Cosel  ran  to  the  horses,  which  were 
ready  at  a  certain  spot ;  in  her  great  haste  she  lost  her 
way.  Zaklika  reached  them,  and,  not  finding  the 
Countess,  rushed  to  seek  her,  but  not  daring  to  call,  for 
the  alarm  was  already  given. 

He  lost  much  time,  but  he  found  her  standing  under 
a  tree.  He  seized  her  by  the  hand,  and  conducted  her 
to  the  horses.  Cosel  jumped  on  her  horse,  and  Zaklika 
was  ready  too,  when  the  soldiers  arrived  and  sur- 
rounded them.  Zaklika  cried  to  Cosel  to  run,  he 
barring  the  road  to  the  soldiers. 

A  few  shots  sounded,  and  the  faithful  man,  struck 
by  a  bullet  in  the  forehead,  fell  to  the  ground  moaning. 
At  that  moment  a  soldier  seized  the  reins  of  the 
Countess's  horse.  She  killed  the  aggressor  on  the 


The  Countess  Cosel  335 

spot  ;  but  there  rushed  forward  another  and  a  third, 
and  she  was  obliged  to  surrender. 

The  commandant  arrived  when  the  two  cold  corpses 
were  already  on  the  bloody  ground — the  third  was 
dying. 

"  Countess,"  said  he,  "  look  how  many  lives  your 
fancies  of  escape  cost  !  '' 

She  answered  nothing,  but,  jumping  from  her  horse, 
came  to  the  dead  Zaklika.  She  put  her  pale  lips  on 
his  forehead,  covered  with  blood.  The  dead  man's 
hand  was  lying  on  his  breast,  as  though  it  would  defend 
the  King's  promise  of  marriage  to  Cosel  that  had  been 
entrusted  to  him.  She  took  it  with  her. 

She  was  led  back  to  the  castle,  where  she  spent 
long  days  sitting  and  reading  the  Bible.  Zaklika  was 
buried  at  her  expense. 

"  Nobody  would  care  about  my  funeral,"  she  said  to 
herself.  "  Now  I  am  alone  in  the  world.  My  children 
do  not  know  me." 


In  1733  Augustus  died,  and  the  commandant  of 
Stolpen  came  personally  to  announce  to  her  the  news. 

For  a  long  time  she  stood  speechless  ;  then  she 
wrung  her  hands,  and,  throwing  herself  on  the  floor, 
began  to  cry. 

Imprisonment,  cruelty,  wrongs,  oblivion,  could  not 
take  from  her  womanly  heart  the  love  which  she  had 
for  him.  From  that  moment  he  was  again  for  her 
the  dear  Augustus. 

Five  days  later  there  came  an  official  from  Dresden, 
sent  by  the  Kurfiirst,  who  was  then  Augustus  III., 


336  The  Countess  Cosel 

King  of  Poland.      He  asked  to  be  announced  to  the 
Countess. 

"  I  am  sent  to  your  Excellency,"  said  he,  "  by  our 
most  gracious  lord,  to  announce  to  you  that  you  are 
free,  and  that  you  may  live  where  you  please." 

Cosel  rubbed  her  forehead. 

"I?  Free?"  said  she.  "What  do  I  need  free- 
dom for  now  ?  The  people  have  become  strangers  to 
me,  and  I  am  a  stranger  to  them.  Where  can  I  go  ? 
I  have  nothing ;  they  have  robbed  me  of  everything. 
You  want  to  make  me  ridiculous;  you  wish  that  those 
who  bowed  down  to  me  should  now  point  the  finger 
of  scorn  at  me  ?  " 

The  official  was  silent. 

"No!"  she  added.  "I  do  not  want  freedom; 
leave  me  here.  I  am  accustomed  to  these  walls,  where 
I  have  shed  all  my  tears ;  I  could  not  live  in  another 
place." 

So  they  let  her  stay  in  Stolpen,  where  she  outlived 
Augustus  III.,  and  the  Seven  Years'  War. 

She  died  in  1765,  being  eighty-five  years  of  age. 
To  the  end  of  her  life  she  preserved  traces  of  her 
great  beauty,  by  which  she  became  so  famous. 


THE    END. 


GILBERT    AND    K.VIXGTON,    LTD.,    ST.    JOHN'S    HOUSE,    CLEKKENV.E  LL,    E.C. 


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